Warisan Indonesia/Bhrahu Pradipto
Ceramic earthenware has more worth than those that is merely burned in temperature less than 900 Celsius degrees. Our artisans are still unfamiliar with the anatomy, styles, and books needed to get more appreciation for their work.
The perseverance of F. Widayanto gradually managed to free ceramic from the confines of general perception in the public accustomed to think of it as common, cheap, low quality household appliance. The youngest son of the late Prof. Poedjawijatna and Sumarni has gone through almost three decades to work on ceramic and the artistic journey has taught him to incorporate both pragmatic and idealist paths cleverly.
Just take a look at his website, www.fwidayanto.com which does not only emphasize artistic sides. The site clearly shows his intention to invite the community, at least middle-class familis in Jakarta and its surrounding areas, to learn about ceramics. There is even a family fun package to learn ceramics for young families educating their children. Some trained instructors are ready to guide both adult and children participants. Each visitor will receive a small ration of 300 grams clay. They will learn to make ceramic craft while joining a tropical tour and savor five kinds of traditional dishes. Returning home, they will bring a piece of ceramic as a keepsake.
Warisan Indonesia/Bhrahu Pradipto
Yanto, that is his nickname, called the studio as Rumah Tanah Baru (RTB) or House of the New Land. It is located just next to South Jakarta, in Depok, West Java. According to him, this is the first ceramics tourism business and the largest in Jakarta. In an area of 13,000 square meters visitors can play with ceramics while having a fun tour. They will gain an understanding that ceramic is not identical with earthenware or pottery. We can use ceramic to sharpen creativity.
On the spacious land, he can design his activities more freely. Its atmosphere is different from the F. Widayanto Gallery located in downtown Jakarta, in Setiabudi, South Jakarta. “We have more on display here than in the Rumah Tanah Baru,” said a marketing staff in a telephone conversation. The New Land House studio can accommodate 200 visitors playing with ceramics while the Setiabudi studio facilities can only provide for 50 people. (WI/Bambang Triyono, Donny Iswandono)
— Full article is available on Majalah Warisan Indonesia Vol.01 No.10 —
