BALI Arts Festival (BAF) 2024 was officially opened by the Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Land/Head of National Land Office, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, in front of the Bajra Sandhi Monument, Denpasar, Saturday (Jun 15) at around 16:00 Local Time.
In his speech, he appreciated the effort of local government and all artist who have worked hard through their profession to preserve the sublime Balinese culture. It is certainly contextual to the preparation for superior human in accordance with the theme of the BAF, namely ‘Jana Kerthi Paramaguna Wikrama meaning ‘superior human dignity.’
This culturally rich opening event was attended by thousands of Balinese residents and tourists, as well as a number of important officials from the central and regional governments.
The Bali Arts Festival, having been an annual agenda since 1979, this time carries the theme “Jana Kerthi Paramaguna Wikrama“, which means superior human dignity. This theme is hoped to raise public awareness to preserve the noble values of Balinese culture in the midst of modernization.
Spectacular Attractions
The opening event of the 46th BAF was enlivened with various stunning artistic attractions. Starting with gamelan music Gong Gede, Semara Pegulingan and Dang Mredangga involving hundreds of artists, this event displayed various traditional Balinese arts such as Barong dance, Legong and others. The audience has been waiting for this amazing grand arts parade since midday.
BAF 2024 was also attended by several arts envoys from a number of regions in Indonesia and abroad, where they also presented their culture in a spirit of friendship and mutual respect for culture. Their presence adds color to this month-long festival.
Exhibitions and Workshop
Apart from art performances, BAF 2024 also presents exhibitions of Balinese handicrafts and workshops. Various art products such as statues, paintings and traditional Balinese fabrics are exhibited to introduce the beauty and diversity of Balinese culture to the world. This event takes place at the Bali Art Center during the implementation of BAF on Jalan Nusa Indah, East Denpasar.
Support for the Creative Economy
The opening of the BAF 2024 will also have a positive impact on the creative economy and tourism sectors in Bali. The presence of large numbers of foreign and domestic tourists makes a significant contribution to the local economy. The regional and central governments are committed to continuing to support the development of tourism and the creative economy in Bali through various programs and policies.
The opening of the 2024 Bali Arts Festival at the Bajra Sandhi Renon Monument is not just a cultural celebration, but also a symbol of the spirit of togetherness and love for the country. With the presence of President Jokowi and the participation of various elements of society, it is hoped that the 2024 PKB can continue to be an event that strengthens brotherhood and preserves Indonesian culture.
Over the next month, the public and tourists can enjoy various art events that not only entertain but also provide education about the richness of Bali’s glorious culture.