Indonesia is one of the countries in this world blessed with
a diverse culture. This culture has been
passed down and preserved from generation to generation. Embedded as well into their culture are their
religious duties and aspirations. These
two aspects are what serve as guides for their artists in molding their art
traditions. Each craft is like a form of
scientific study, each requiring a systematic method for a successful
output. One of their flourishing art
traditions is their woodcarvings. Each
piece is carefully carved and transposed into intricate designs that aim to
depict more than what each piece physically portrays.
The Wooden Canvas
The Indonesian culture, although influenced by numerous
other cultures, is dominantly close in relation to nature and most especially
religion. The fact that they use wood as
their carving canvas brings us closer to understanding their love and high
respect for nature. Wood of different
types, from soft to hard, dark to white, are used in all types of wood
carvings. Designs such as flowers,
plants, trees, animals, and dragons are usual when dealing with Indonesian
wood-carved artworks. Each work of art
is unique therefore is very much cherished by the Indonesian culture and is popular
to woodcarving collectors all over the world.
The Common Themes
Indonesian wood carvings are typically made in the likeness
of human beings. With a few varnishing
and colourful touches, the finished crafts are always life-like in nature and
expressive at first glance. Human beings
are portrayed in different eccentric positions that it even gives off the
feeling of adoration for the nature surrounding it. In addition to human beings, Indonesian wood
carvings take up the shape of common domestic animals as well. As part of their nature-inclined culture,
they carve animal design that would not only represent human feelings at its
best but the Indonesian history, incorporated in every detail.
Whatever the theme, whatever the design or concept and
whatever the material used, each piece of carefully carved wood is evident of
Indonesia’s colourful, spontaneous and bright culture. You will notice as well that each detail
incorporated in their woodcarvings is aimed to express the raw human traits
that add lifelike touch to the woodcarving piece itself. By logging into the Internet, you will soon
discover that Indonesian wood carvings definitely portray the Indonesian art,
religious beliefs and culture at its best.
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