Museum Basuki Abdoellah

Did Basoeki Abdullah, a renowned Indonesian artist, foresee that his home would transform into the Museum Basoeki Abdullah? Here we stand, before this very building in South Jakarta, a testament to his life and legacy. The Museum Basoeki Abdullah officially opened its doors on September 25, 2001. It was a direct result of Abdullah’s will, a final wish to share his art and personal collection with the Indonesian people. He bequeathed his home, along with an astounding collection, to the government. The house, located on Jalan Keuangan Raya, became the vessel for this artistic treasure. It underwent renovations in 1998, transforming from a private residence into the museum we see today. Inside the Museum Basoeki Abdullah, you will discover more than just paintings. His personal collection includes statues, masks, puppets, traditional Indonesian wayang figures, and even weapons. The museum holds 109 original paintings, showcasing his mastery of realism. Imagine, a ten-year-old Basoeki painting a portrait of Mahatma Gandhi! This early work is on display here, a testament to his burgeoning talent. His father’s portrait, Abdullah Suryo Subroto, hangs beside it. Upstairs, the second floor unveils 40 more of Abdullah’s masterpieces, chosen from a collection of 115. They offer a diverse range, from landscapes capturing the beauty of Indonesian mountains, seas, and its unique wildlife to portraits of prominent figures. He immortalized individuals like Prince Diponegoro, R.A. Kartini, Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono IX, Ibu Tien Soeharto, and even international figures like Ferdinand Marcos, King Fahd, and Lee Kuan Yew. The Museum Basoeki Abdullah isn’t just a static display. It’s a vibrant hub of artistic expression. The museum hosts workshops and exhibitions, ensuring that Abdullah’s influence continues to inspire. It’s also a place for research and seminars, delving deeper into the world of art and its impact on Indonesian culture. The Museum Basoeki Abdullah stands as a monument to a man who dedicated his life to art. It is a place where his spirit lives on, inspiring future generations of artists and art lovers alike.