Robert Draws – Arkiv Vilmansa’s artistic response to the damage facing marine life is brought to life through his latest exhibition titled Semesta Arkiv. The exhibition is showcased at the National Gallery of Indonesia, Jakarta, beginning February 22, 2025. Through his paintings and installations, Arkiv addresses the urgent environmental issues affecting marine ecosystems, aiming to raise awareness about the state of the oceans and the creatures inhabiting them.
Arkiv’s collection, titled Laut Semua Warna (The Sea of All Colors), focuses on the environmental threats to marine life. The artist’s work highlights the importance of preserving ocean habitats and the various species that rely on them. With Indonesia being a maritime nation, Arkiv emphasizes the urgency of addressing issues such as the decline of endemic marine species, especially in areas like Sandaran, East Kalimantan. He describes these environmental concerns as crucial to the nation’s identity.
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One of the key issues Arkiv explores in his work is the presence of microplastics in the ocean. Recent discoveries of microplastic pollution in the waters of East Kalimantan have raised significant concerns. Microplastics are fragments of plastic debris that accumulate in the marine environment, posing a severe threat to aquatic life. Arkiv’s large-scale painting, measuring 15 meters long, depicts various endangered marine creatures. It features iconic species like manta rays, dugongs, sunfish, jellyfish, and eels, all threatened by ocean pollution. The artwork serves as a stark reminder of the need for urgent action to protect these vulnerable species.
In addition to his paintings, Arkiv presents two giant whale sculptures, Raga and Runa, which symbolize the largest marine mammals. These monumental sculptures, made from plastic and inflated with air, stand as a powerful statement about the state of the ocean. The sculptures measure 30 meters in length, showcasing the grand scale of Arkiv’s artistic vision. Previously displayed in Bali, the whales now stand proudly outside the National Gallery. Their installation serves as a visual metaphor for the massive impact that human actions have on marine ecosystems.
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Through his work, Arkiv aims to inspire viewers to care for the oceans and marine life. His exhibition calls for action, urging the public to protect marine species. By blending contemporary art with environmental issues, Arkiv emphasizes that marine life’s survival is linked to the planet’s well-being.
Arkiv Vilmansa’s Semesta Arkiv exhibition is not only a celebration of his artistic skill but also a call for environmental consciousness. His works highlight the destructive impact of plastic pollution and the ongoing threats to marine life. Arkiv’s ability to use art as a platform for environmental advocacy allows him to reach a wider audience and inspire change. Arkiv Vilmansa’s Artistic Response serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving the oceans for future generations.
Arkiv’s latest work invites viewers to reflect on the role they play in conserving marine life and the environment. Through vivid imagery and compelling installations, the exhibition offers an opportunity to engage with the pressing issues facing the world’s oceans.
