UBUD, mybalinews.com – The art exhibition “ROOTS: One Hundred Years of Walter Spies in Bali” at the ARMA Ubud Museum, originally scheduled to end on June 14, 2025, has been extended to July 14, 2025, to provide a wider opportunity for the public to experience the works on display.
The exhibition, initiated by KBH.G Basel and Michael Schindhelm, features a fictional documentary about the work of European artist Walter Spies in Bali, combined with the work of two contemporary Balinese artists, Made Bayak and Gus Dark.
Both artists not only present visual works but also participated in the filmmaking and voiced critical views on the development of tourism in Bali, environmental issues, socio-cultural issues, and the dark history of humanity in 1965.
Visitors can still witness firsthand this collaboration across eras and perspectives that has captured the attention of art lovers, both domestic and international, from the beginning.
Numerous comments and impressions from visitors expressed high appreciation for the exhibition.
Yudha Bantono, Project Manager of the ROOTS Exhibition, said many visitors come more than once, especially Balinese, who are very enthusiastic because they feel the exhibition speaks to something close and important to them.
Yudha, who frequently participates in international art tours, said ROOTS is not just a space to enjoy art, but also a platform to raise awareness through reflection on history and current realities to maintain Bali’s nobility and sustainability.
He then recounted his conversations with several visitors, highlighting their positive impressions and comments about ROOTS.
“In fact, a visitor from Slovakia expressed surprise and admiration. She called the ROOTS exhibition one of the most daring and moving, as it raises important collective memories and encourages us all to safeguard Bali’s future,” he said.
Agung Yudi, Director of the ARMA Museum, explained that the decision to extend the exhibition from one month to two months was due to the high level of visitor enthusiasm and public appreciation.
This exhibition, which presents the complexity of issues, is truly engaging, as it provides a critical reflection on various important issues on the Island of the Gods as a global tourism destination.
Agung Rai, Founder of ARMA and Chairman of the Walter Spies Society Bali, also emphasized that the ROOTS exhibition carries a profound message and impact.
“This exhibition is not only about Walter Spies as a figure in the history of art and tourism, but also serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting Bali from the massive influx of tourism investment that often has negative cultural, social, and environmental impacts,” Agung Rai emphasized. (mybalinews/RLS)
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