Finding Wisdom, Flowing with Nature through the Works of Sidik W Martowidjojo
Through his works, Sidik also takes anyone who is interested in finding meaning and peace on a journey towards wisdom. It is possible that seeing, enjoying, and owning Sidik’s works will be a choice made by peace seekers; those who want to find the essence of existence.
The Two Sides of Sidik Martowidjojo
Businessman and Artist, those are two things that cannot be separated from Sidik Martowidjojo. Born to a Chinese father and a blue-blooded Javanese mother on 24 September 1937 in Malang, Sidik experienced a colorful phase of life. He experienced several difficult times during the pre- and post-independence period. Even so, Sidik shared his experiences and memories from youth to adulthood and even old age that eventually led him to a new dimension of art.
He came into contact with the art world when introduced to Chinese calligraphy. By the end of his elementary education around 1953, he could not only create beautiful calligraphy, but also a Chinese-style painting. However, he did not really pursue painting throughout his adult life. Instead of becoming an artist, despite having been a Chinese language teacher and pursued calligraphy, the times and circumstances made him step away from the arts to pursue business.
Being busy with business and immersed in the hustle and bustle of Jakarta did not make Sidik completely abandon his calling. In between trips to several countries in Asia, Arabia and especially Europe, he always took the time to visit art centers. On those visits, Sidik says he was particularly inspired by two great Western figures, Joseph Turner (1775-1851) and Claude Monet (1810-1926).
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“An artist is not himself, he is part of nature,” Sidik W Martowidjojo.
by Registry Indonesia
From these trips to cultural centers, he showed an interest in the Western way of painting, especially in terms of anatomy and perspective. This was enough to influence Sidik’s early works after he decided to take painting seriously again. However, every time he tried Western brushwork he still felt more fluid with Eastern brushwork.
When China opened up to visitors from Indonesia in 1990, Sidik embarked on a new adventure of exploring and discovering the spirit of the timeless civilizations of the past, to flow and become the main pulse of his works. He draws inspiration from the colors of spring, flower festivals, from nature and from the spiritual experiences he finds on every trip.
During his travels, Sidik transmitted Chinese painting into his own artistic language. The play of colors he created gradually blurred the lines and contours until they were no longer felt in his post-2000 works.
The Birth of the Maestro
The invention of his own art language born out of his skillful hand with the pit. The evolution of his work found a new energy about the concept of being. He began to discard the meaning of objects from mere form to the essence of nature itself.
During this search period, Sidik began to have many discussions with Chinese painters in the country who were scattered across several cities. He also did not close himself off from discussions with painters and artists outside the Chinese culture. In 1998, Sidik held his first solo exhibition at Griya Kencana Yogyakarta.
Sidik’s appearance not only shocked minds of Chinese calligraphy connoisseurs, but also sparked a fire among artists at that time. Appearing with the classic face of Chinese painting with a fusion of modern style via
essentialization, Sidik roused collectors to buy his works. He became an artist who was ‘suddenly’ talked about in art discussions.
The success of the first exhibition drove Sidik wild. He became more and more immersed in the play of colors and continuously let his brush leave the real landscape and find the essence behind the landscape itself. Sidik became more confident in moving the canvas and tinkering with colors in larger media.
A meeting with Indonesia’s leading curator Eddy Sutriyono at a young age brought Sidik from exhibition to exhibition in several cities. His works were displayed in the most prestigious venues such as the Mercantile Club to official exhibition spaces such as the National Museum.
Not just domestically, Sidik also performed in a number of events both in Singapore and China. He participated in various competitions and was awarded for his flower-themed paintings in 2001 in Beijing and 2002 in Nanjing. A followup exhibition held at The China Millennium Monument Beijing in 2006 brought Sidik together with renowned curator Liu Xi Lin. Li’s appreciation and praise led to a special opportunity a year later for Sidik to exhibit at NAMoC - China’s national art museum, coveted by those who pursue Chinese painting.
The presence of Sidik’s works in a Chinese museum instantly lit up discussion because they were considered to reflect the evolution of Chinese art, which was not only modern but also philosophical. His works were discussed in forums and advertised in official media. He was soon appointed as a research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Art in Beijing, and invited to be a visiting professor at a number of universities, making him a world-recognized maestro of Indonesian painting.
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Menghadiri pameran lukisan di Carrousel du Lourve Paris, Perancis dan menerima penghargaan 2 gold medal (2014)
The journey to find the highest essence of his work, which he calls finding the soul between East and West, prompted Sidik to apply for an international exhibition held by the Societe Nationale des Beaux Arts at Le Carrousel in Paris. The 2013 version of the show gave him the red carpet to show the following year. The second time around, Sidik won two gold medals and a solo exhibition at the Louvre International Arts in Paris, France, which took place in mid-December 2014. He became the first Indonesian painter to be internationally honored in Paris. The masterpiece for the show was a 7 x 2 meter painting titled Jalan.
Receiving international recognition has not made Sidik complacent. His works increasingly show that the process of searching for the meaning of universality and fusion with nature never reaches an impasse.
He continues to produce maestro works that are displayed in his own museum located in Bale Raos of the Yogyakarta palace, - an award from the Sultan for his contribution to the country’s art world. Through his latest works, Sidik has strengthened himself as an artist no longer trapped in one culture. His 120 x 2,100 cm watercolor work Dewa Ruci depicts how he grew up in a Javanese culture full of spiritual values. Soul evolution and cultural acculturation become a space for expression that is no longer limited to what it means to exist.
Culturist G Budi Subanar SJ wrote that Sidik is no longer talking about what he makes, but far from that he is now talking about humanity. Talking about the spirituality of people today, and about the challenges faced by humans today.
“Sidik has left his experience behind. He speaks beyond the
image. Sidik communicates outwards and has overcome the works he produces,” wrote Budi.
Yes! Looking at, and diving into the canvas strokes of Sidik Martowidjojo will take you beyond just enjoying the artwork. He gives meaning as well as guidance to find a masterpiece, a fusion with nature on the way to wisdom.
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10 besar orang seni budaya dari Komunitas Masyarakat Kecil Sejahtera Cina, 2007
Sebagai Professor tamu di Eastern International Art College of Zhengzhou University of Light Industry
Surat pengangkatan Sidik Martowidjojo sebagai tim peneliti di bidang seni oleh Chinese Academy of Art 2007
The Westin Jakarta, in association with Marriott Worldwide Business Councils Indonesia, is pleased to announce the upcoming solo art exhibition of renowned artist Sidik W. Martowidjojo, the first artist from his nation to exhibit at the iconic Louvre in Paris, France. Titled “Mengalir Membawa Cinta,” the exhibition will take place at the Sky Lounge Lobby on Level 52 of The Westin Jakarta. The Sidik Martowidjojo solo art exhibition is organized in support of the Sungai Watch charity auction, a noble cause aimed at conserving and protecting Indonesia’s rivers.
Founded in 2020 by Gary, Kelly, and Sam Bencheghib in Bali, Indonesia, Sungai Watch has grown into a team of 90 passionate river warriors, working tirelessly to create solutions to stop the flow of plastic pollution from going into the ocean. Their scalable strategy for addressing plastic pollution includes creating straightforward trash barriers and running a collection, sorting, and upcycling system. They have also started exploring international expansion through Asia and South America in addition to their goal of installing 1,000 barriers throughout Indonesia.
As part of the exhibition, The Westin Jakarta is thrilled to present an extraordinary opportunity for art enthusiasts to meet the esteemed Mr. Sidik W. Martowidjojo at Marriott Bonvoy Moments, hosted on the 18th of August, 2023. Indulge in intimate heart-to-heart conversations with Mr. Martowidjojo as he shares his inspiring journey as an artist and the motivations fueling his passion for painting. Experience the exquisite blend of delectable treats and refreshments while exploring the art of painting and receiving invaluable advice from the maestro himself.
The official Opening Ceremony and Media/Press Conference for the exhibition will be held on August 2nd, 2023.
Following the opening, the Art Exhibition will be open to the public from August 3rd to August 22nd. During this period, visitors will have the exclusive opportunity to view and acquire unique pieces of art while actively supporting the cause championed by Sungai Watch. The painting auction for Sungai Watch will be on 19 August 2023.
The exhibition will culminate in a Closing Ceremony and Charity Distribution on August 23rd, 2023, marking the submission of auction results to The Westin Jakarta, Marriott Indonesia Business Council, and Sungai Watch.
The Westin Jakarta is honored to be part of this significant initiative and remains committed to supporting local causes that contribute to the betterment of society.
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Registry in collaboration with The Westin Jakarta, in association with Marriott Worldwide Business Councils Indonesia is proud to present Solo Art Exhibition Sidik W. Martowidjojo and Charity Auction. The charity auction is organized for the noble cause of preserving and protecting Indonesia’s rivers.
This time, Sidik will showcase more than 30 of his artworks in an exhibition titled “Mengalir Membawa Cinta” which will be held at the Sky Lounge Lobby 52nd Floor The Westin Jakarta. The Art Exhibition will be open to the public from August 3rd to August 22nd and Open Auction will be held on 19th August 2023.
On that occasion, Sidik, who has won two gold medals at the Louvre International Arts international painting exhibition in Paris, France, will display his latest pieces. Almost all of the illustrations that Sidik will display are related to nature which is in line with the main theme of this exhibition. The proceeds of the auction will be donated entirely to support the activities of young people who are members of Sungai Watch.
Registry is honored to be part of this significant initiative and remains committed to supporting local causes that contribute to the betterment of society. Mr. Setiawan Sudjie, as Editor in Chief and Publisher of Registry, expresses his full happiness to support this glorious event in collaboration with Mr. Sidik W. Martowidjojo and The Westin Jakarta. He offers thanks to all who support Registry doing this event, and they hope an example can be set for others to do the same; inspiring similar events as remembrance of the importance of humanity and nature that God gave us which we are responsible to take care of.
About Registry
Registry Indonesia the finest gallery of luxurious goods and lifestyle, rendering informative insight to our esteemed readers. We have been a major player in the premium showcase publication in printed edition, digital release, and social media platforms for valuable showcasing of a country’s businesses and investments from jewellery to art, just to mention a few.
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ARTWORKS FOR AUCTION
Danau
water color on chinese paper
79 x 154 cm
2016
Menyambut Senja
water color on chinese paper
67 x 136 cm
2023
Sejuk
water color onchinese paper
136 x 67 cm
2018
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Telaga Kehidupan water color on chinese paper 68 x135 cm 2003
Bangau Menari water color on chinese paper 67 x 136 cm 2007
Embun Pagi water color on chinese paper 68 x 134 cm 2019
Setangkai Peony Merah water color on chinese paper 68 x 68 cm 2002
GALLERY
Kabut Dalam Terjal water color on chinese paper 135 x 67 cm 2019
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Kelembutan acrylic on canvas 120 x 90 cm 2021
Keteguhan acrylic on canvas 72 x 140 cm
2019
Berayun water color on chinese paper 66,5 x 43 cm 2004
Teguh acrylic on canvas 150 x 100 cm 2019
Tepian acrylic on canvas 109 x 74 cm 2020
GALLERY
Menerjang Prahara water color on chinese paper 68 x 136 cm 2019
1998
Galaksi
2017
Primary
2017
Rembuyung
2017
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Hening Salju water color on chinese paper 108 x 108 cm 2016
Mengalir Jauh water color on chinese paper 48 x 70 cm
water color on chinese paper 67 x 41 cm
water color on chinese paper 108 x 105 cm
water color on chinese paper 108 x 105 cm
Berbaur water color on chinese paper 30 x 46 cm 2019
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Huma Di Tepian water color on chinese paper 66,5 x 66,5 cm 2000
Taman Bunga water color on chinese paper 67 x 67 cm 2004
Kehidupan acrylic on canvas 130 x 117 cm 2020
Merona water color on chinese paper 67 x 136 cm 2023
Rerimbunan water color on chinese paper 67 x 136 cm 2023
Nuansa Jagad Raya water color on chinese paper 67 x 136 cm 2023
Nuansa Lembayung water color on chinese paper 67 x 136 cm 2023
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Pratela Tertutup Kabut water color on chinese paper 45 x 27 cm
2019
Bersama Alam water color on chinese paper 136 x 67 cm 2023
Tanpa Gelombang water color on chinese paper 67 x 136 cm 2023
Desa di Tepi Danau water color on chinese paper 69 x 45 cm 1998
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Aliran Kehidupan Acrylic on canvas 150 x 100 cm 2023
Dari Puncak Bukit water color on chinese paper 136 x 67 cm 2023
Mencari Jalan water color on chinese paper 136 x 67 cm 2023
Semi water color on chinese paper 67 x 67 cm 2003
SIDIK W. MARTOWIDJOJO (MA YONG QIANG)
He was born on September 24, 1937 in Malang, East Java. His father was from China, named Bhe Hwie Kwan, who migrated to the archipelago at the age of 15, and then got an Indonesian name: Winarto Kertodjojo. His mother was Juniati, who was descended from Sultan Hamengkubuwono I, Prince Harjo Abu Bakar.
1944 Sidik began studying at the Chinese-owned SR (Sekolah Rakyat) in Malang. Sidik, among others, received lessons in Chinese Calligraphy, which is writing Chinese calligraphy using a “pit” or brush.
1946 He began to recognize and learn about Qi Gong (read: Ji Kung). Qi means air, Gong means knowledge.
1963 Sidik pursued a career as a teacher at a Chinese elementary school. This career was short-lived because in 1966, the school was closed for political reasons.
1968 Sidik migrated to Jakarta and worked at the Indonesian Economic Development Bank. He worked for 3 years. After that, Sidik decided to pursue business.
1975 Sidik married a girl named R.R. Lily Indra Ginarni Kalapaaking, a dentist who was also a blueblood descendant of Sultan Agung. The following year their daughter, Dhyani Paramita Kalapaaking, was born.
1990 Sidik’s family decided to move to Yogyakarta. After a long stay in Jakarta, Sidik and his family spent a year in his wife’s hometown, Kebumen, Central Java. From living in Yogyakarta, Sidik hung out with many of the city’s artists, especially Handrio, Aming Prayitno, Widajat, Subroto SM, and others. At this point, Sidik decided to become a painter full-time.
1993 Visited his father’s hometown of Fuqing, Fujian, South China.
1994 Visited Pu Jue Si temple in Chengdu, Sichuan province and Sidik was awarded the name Zhiguang (Light of Wisdom).
1995 Sidik discovered the tomb of Ma Baopu in Fuqing, Shi Zhu Shan (Cool Mountain) of Fujian Province. The tomb was inscribed with the year 1853 AD which turned out to be the tomb of his father’s great-grandfather, originally from Zangle village.
Sidik is the 5th descendant of Ma Baopu and directly descended from Maduo, who in 1414 AD received the title of 1st rank scholar (Chong Guan) from Emperor Yong Le of the Ming Dynasty.
1998 Solo exhibition at Gedung Kencana, Yogyakarta. In that year, Sidik also held a Chinese painting workshop at Phoenix Hotel, Yogyakarta.
1999 Solo exhibition at Millennium Gallery, Jakarta.
2001 Received the “Chinese Painting Excellence Award” at the World Chinese Painting and Calligraphy Competition in Beijing. This award was given by several institutions, namely China Daily, All China Youth Federation, China Federation of Literary Art Circles.
2002 Awarded the “Chinese Painting Excellence Award” at the World Chinese Painting and Calligraphy Competition in Nanjing, China. As well as a similar award in 2001 organized by China Daily, All China youth Federation of Literary Art Circles.
2004 Solo exhibition at Galeri Langgeng, Magelang, Central Java.
2005 Solo exhibition at the National Gallery of Indonesia, Jakarta.
2006 Solo exhibition at The Chine Millennium Monument, Beijing, China.
2006 Solo exhibition at Liu Haisu Art Museum, SHANGHAI, China.
2007 Solo exhibition at the National Art Museum of China (NAMoc) or Zongguo Meishuguan in Beijing, China.
2007 Awarded as Research Fellow at the Chinese Academy of Art.
2010 In his capacity as a Research Fellow, Sidik was invited to “The First- High Level Academic Forum for Asian Culture and Art Circle 2010” in Chengdu. Also present at the event was Mo Yan, a Chinese writer who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2012.
2014 Exhibition at Carrousel du Luvre, Paris, France at the invitation of CICC (China International Cooperation Center) the exhibition was organized by SNBA (Societe Nationale des Beaux Arts) which was attended by more than 600 artists from 56 countries. Sidik displayed the work “Englightment Orientalism” and received the Medaille d’Or or Gold Medal for the best work selected by the jury, and the Medaille d’Or for the Overall Champion award.
2017 Solo exhibition “Illuminate” at the National Museum, Jakarta.
2018 Sidik exhibited at the Louvre, Paris, France and received the Prix Special du Jury award at the Salon des Beaux Arts 2018. It was given by the Societe Nationale des Beaux Arts, Paris, France.
2021 Established Pit Mabuk Art Venue in Demangan, Yogyakarta.
2021 Solo exhibition “Sidikscape” and launching of Pit Mabuk Art Venue, Demangan, Yogyakarta.
2022 Solo exhibition “Voyage to Wisdom” as well as the launch of the book “Voyage to Wisdom” at Sunrise Gallery, Fermont hotel, Jakarta.
2022 Solo exhibition “Voyage to Wisdom” at National Museum Jakarta
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Turun dari puncak kehidupan Menggema gemuruh menyapaku Aku rindu suaramu... Aku rindu senandungmu
Aliran yang membawa nafas kedamaian Namun nyanyianmu menjadi elegi Jangan menangis dan gusar Aku akan menghiburmu.. mencintaimu
Datanglah karena aku menunggumu Kuingin kau hadir dengan gelombangmu Teruslah mengalir dan mengalir
Mengalir membawa cinta
Poetry by : Sidik W. Martowidjojo
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