SAKA Museum at AYANA Bali has recently launched its first temporary exhibition showcasing how a centuries-old Balinese painting tradition continues to thrive.
For nine months, SAKA Museum is presenting a new way to experience the Kamasan painting tradition through an exhibition unlike anything before. ‘KAMASAN: The Noble Tradition of Balinese Painting’ runs from 28 August 2026 to 30 May 2027 showcasing over 30 artworks, juxtaposing historical works from the 19th century and contemporary pieces on par. The exhibition explores how ritual, inherited knowledge, women’s participation and contemporary practices contribute in preserving one of the oldest painting traditions on the island.
The painting style takes its name from Kamasan village in Klungkung Regency, where the tradition was born and continues to this day. The exhibition displays an array of masterpieces, such as classical ritual cloths, palm-leaf works, a Palelintangan astrological calendar and paintings by Kamasan masters that have been entrusted to the museum by their families and descendants.
Curated by Farah Wardani and Made Chandra, and designed by architectural designers
studiodikubu, the exhibition walks visitors through a series of Kala, or temporal chapters, starting with the origins of the tradition to its hereditary master painters, the women of Kamasan, a new generation of contemporary artists and finally, ending it with the visual language. A closing chapter is devoted to Mangku Muriati, the first woman of her generation to hold the unique dual role of temple priest and Kamasan artist.
Meanwhile, younger artists such as Eka Sutha and tattoo artist, Eka Mardiys, expand Kamasan’s visual language through pop-collage aesthetic and recasting Kamasan figures in a futuristic style.
Besides the showcase, SAKA Museum will also offer visitors curatorial and artist talks, workshops, children activities, and other public programmes throughout the exhibition. The programs will give visitors the opportunities to meet the artists and researchers to learn more about Kamasan painting.
‘KAMASAN: The Noble Tradition of Balinese Painting’
28 August 2026 – 30 May 2027
Open to public daily: 10am – 6pm
SAKA Museum at AYANA Bali
Jalan Karang Mas Sejahtera, Jimbaran
@sakamuseum
sakamuseum.org
