Doa di Rongga Ibu: Di Bawah Lidah – Di Tengah Selat

a solo exhibition by Gilang Fradika

  • Beriring dan Berantara

    Oil on canvas
    183cm x 243.5cm | 2025

  • Ambang

    Oil on canvas
    140cm x 110cm | 2025

  • Panen

    Oil on canvas
    140cm x 110cm | 2025

  • Sembah

    Oil on canvas
    140cm x 110cm | 2025

  • Semayam

    Oil on canvas
    183.5cm x 183cm | 2025

  • Menunggu, Ingatan dan Sisa

    Oil on canvas
    153cm x 183cm | 2025

Gilang's new series of oil paintings encourages viewers to slow down and immerse themselves in the intimate realm of the soul, reflecting the Javanese proverb "alon-alon waton kelakon" (slowly but surely). Drawing inspiration from local cultural traditions and the profound philosophies in Subagio Sastrowardoyo's poetry, his works feature tranquil landscapes that invite contemplation of life and the universe.

Through anatomical symbols, offerings (sesaji), and gestures, he explores the concept of boundaries as meeting points between external beauty and inner tranquillity. His work reveals the emotions of nature, presenting beauty that may appear innocent yet conceals deeper stories.

The exploration of emotion leads to the metaphor "di bawah lidah" (beneath the tongue), which symbolises a silent, intimate space for unspoken truths in a noisy world. Gilang’s works do not impose meanings; instead, they invite us to reflect, pause, listen, and consider where we find ourselves in life.

And ultimately, it invites us to reflect: how do these paintings move us, and what truths linger in the spaces where words fall silent?

— Anindya Puspita