Robert Draws – MURI Record with Glass Painting Celebration is set to be one of the highlights of Cirebon’s 2025 anniversary. The city of Cirebon in West Java is preparing to break the Museum of Indonesian Records (MURI) by organizing a massive glass painting event. This celebration is not only about achieving a remarkable record, but also about showcasing the city’s unique art form and cultural heritage. Scheduled for June 27, 2025, the event will coincide with Cirebon’s official anniversary, providing a memorable experience for participants and visitors alike.
Cirebon is well-known for its traditional glass painting, which has been an essential part of the city’s artistic culture for centuries. This unique art involves painting images on the back side of a glass surface, creating stunning, detailed designs that can be appreciated from the front. It’s a technique that has been passed down through generations, with each piece representing the skill and creativity of local artisans. Glass paintings in Cirebon often depict cultural, religious, and natural themes, which make the art form a valuable representation of the city’s history and identity.
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To commemorate the city’s anniversary in 2025, the local cultural and tourism department plans to organize a grand event aiming to break a MURI record for the largest collection of glass paintings. The celebration will last two to three days, and will feature workshops, demonstrations, and exhibitions to introduce and share this distinctive craft with a wider audience. The initiative will provide both locals and visitors with the opportunity to participate in the creation of glass paintings, fostering an inclusive and educational experience.
Agus Sukmanjaya, the Head of Cirebon’s Cultural and Tourism Department, emphasized that the goal of the event is to create an engaging and enjoyable platform for both the local community and tourists to appreciate this traditional art form. “This event will not only break a record but will also help preserve and promote glass painting as part of our heritage,” he said.
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In addition to aiming for the MURI record, the glass painting celebration will help raise awareness of Cirebon’s cultural heritage. This event offers an excellent opportunity to promote the city’s artistic traditions and strengthen its identity as a cultural hub in West Java. By showcasing local arts, Cirebon hopes to attract attention from art enthusiasts, tourists, and scholars, boosting both cultural pride and tourism.
As part of the celebration, the organizers will hold various other activities, such as cultural exhibitions, performances, and collaborations with local artists and cultural groups. These efforts align with the city’s larger vision of preserving its traditions and promoting them to a wider audience. Agus noted that through this event, Cirebon aims to provide an enriching experience for everyone involved while solidifying its reputation as a city rich in heritage and art.
The MURI glass painting event is a key part of Cirebon’s efforts to develop its cultural tourism sector. By promoting Cirebon’s traditional arts and local crafts, the city hopes to enhance its visibility and attract more tourists. The record-breaking celebration, along with other cultural activities, will make Cirebon an exciting destination for both domestic and international visitors interested in exploring Indonesia’s diverse traditions.
The event will also serve as a stepping stone for other large-scale cultural activities, such as the Spice Route Festival, which will take place in July 2025. Agus mentioned that the festival will further highlight Cirebon’s rich history and vibrant culture, offering a unique experience for those who want to learn more about the city’s past and its role in the global spice trade. Through these efforts, Cirebon aims to boost its tourism industry while simultaneously preserving and celebrating its unique cultural heritage.
