Born in 1907 in the village of Cirebon, West Java, Affandi began his career not as an artist but as a school teacher, billboard painter, and even a drawing instructor.

His journey into the world of fine art was largely self-directed. He was driven by an innate passion and a voracious need to express his emotional and physical landscape.

This lack of formal training did not hinder his progress but fueled his distinctive style and approach to art.

Embracing Expressionism

Unlike many of his contemporaries who adopted Western styles, Affandi chose expressionism to portray the vibrancy and turmoil of the human spirit.

His unique method of applying paint directly from the tube to the canvas and manipulating it with his hands allowed for a spontaneous and intuitive creation process.

This technique broke from conventional norms and infused his works with a raw, visceral energy that became synonymous with his name.

Themes and Inspirations

Affandi’s oeuvre spans many subjects, from the mundane to the monumental.

He painted landscapes, people, and events with a poignant expressiveness, reflecting the socio-political atmosphere of Indonesia throughout his career.

His works are a diary of his life experiences, from the joyous to the tragic. His powerful depictions of his wife’s passing are among his most profound.

Cultural Impact and Artistic Contributions

Affandi’s impact on Indonesian art is monumental. By staying in Indonesia, where many artists sought recognition in the West, he helped nurture and grow the local art scene.

His commitment to expressionism was a personal choice and a cultural statement, emphasizing the importance of indigenous art forms and themes.

Global Recognition and Legacy

Throughout his lifetime, Affandi was recognized with numerous awards, including the Dag Hammarskjöld Prize from Italy and an honorary doctorate from the University of Singapore.

His work has been exhibited globally, from the Rome Quadrennial to solo exhibitions across Europe and Asia, showcasing Indonesian culture and art internationally.

The Affandi Museum and Educational Outreach

Perhaps one of his lasting contributions is the Affandi Museum in Yogyakarta, which he founded and designed.

The museum displays many of his works and serves as an educational hub, offering workshops and resources for aspiring artists.

This institution is a testament to his dedication to nurturing future generations of artists.

Invitation to Explore Affandi’s Art

Dive into the intense, colorful, and emotive world of Affandi—experience how his hands crafted paintings and the very pulse of Indonesia’s soul on canvas.

For art collectors and enthusiasts alike, owning an Affandi is a piece of Indonesian artistic heritage. Explore and acquire original artworks by Affandi, capturing the essence of Indonesian expressionism.