Ambassador Suryo Pratomo attended the opening of a Mexican art exhibition spotlighting Bali’s cultural heritage at the National Library of Singapore

Indonesian Ambassador to Singapore, Suryo Pratomo, attended the opening ceremony of the art exhibition titled “Miguel Covarrubias: A Mexican Artist’s Fascination with the Pacific” at the National Library, Singapore, on 8 May 2025. The exhibition showcased the works of renowned Mexican artist and anthropologist Miguel Covarrubias, known for his deep exploration of cultures across the Pacific region, including his celebrated depictions of Bali, Indonesia.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Pratomo expressed appreciation for the initiative and highlighted Covarrubias’ instrumental role in introducing Balinese culture to the international stage. He noted that through his paintings, sketches, and anthropological records, Covarrubias not only captured Bali’s visual beauty but also conveyed a profound understanding of its spirit and people.

The ambassador further emphasised the continued relevance of Covarrubias’ work today, particularly as a reminder of the importance of cross-cultural openness and civilisational appreciation. He affirmed that art remains a powerful tool of diplomacy, fostering mutual understanding and long-term cooperation among nations.

The exhibition was organised in collaboration with the Embassy of Mexico in Singapore, the National Library of Singapore, and supported by a community of curators and academics with a longstanding interest in Covarrubias’ legacy.

Also speaking at the event were the Mexican Ambassador to Singapore, Agustín García-López Loaeza, and the exhibition’s curator, along with local art figures. Ambassador García-López praised Covarrubias as a symbol of historical and cultural linkage between Mexico and the Pacific world, and thanked the Indonesian Embassy for its support of this cultural initiative. The exhibition featured significant works by Covarrubias, including illustrations and notes from his 1930s visit to Bali, later published in Island of Bali, offering a vivid look into Balinese daily life, religious rituals, and cultural landscapes.

Source: KBRI Singapore