Bio Statement:
My cultural background plays a key role in shaping my interest and motivation for curating this specific event. I grew up bicultural, with my mum being Australian and my Dad being Balinese. As someone who has been involved in the arts from a young age, I can attribute this stemming from experiencing arts and culture in Bali. I wanted to combine special memories from my upbringing in Bali into a one day celebration that sheds light on Balinese traditions – music, art making and food.
Abstract:
Following my recent involvement in the 2025 Nongkrong Festival – a series of events spotlighting Indonesian arts and culture across Melbourne – I had the opportunity to engage with Melbourne’s Indonesian community. While the festival successfully celebrated Indonesian arts and culture, I noticed a lack of focus on Balinese specific traditions. As Bali is the most visited and well known part of Indonesia, I thought that future programming for a Indonesian-Australian festival should include increased focus on Balinese culture. Therefore, I am proposing Om Swastiastu, a one-day cultural event focusing exclusively on Balinese arts and culture.
astarimudana@icloud.com
