These photos are just a fraction of the events that take place on the Indonesian stage; a small, visible portion of the expression of the soul. On the stage, a pulsating reality of life will always present itself, giving voice to what is hidden in the independent soul. ABOUT DANIEL SW
I am an Indonesian photographer focused on stage photography. I used to work with video materials, but currently,
photography is my main occupation. Stage attracted me because of the colors and shapes that create diversity in forms, and the honesty in psychological expression of subject. I think that these qualities are hard to find these days, especially under the pressure of mass production and pulp pop culture which produce dull patterns defined by materialistic view and uniformity. With new media revolutions, stage is out of interest in Indonesia, as is true all over the world. Recently Indonesia has had huge political changes, converting from a totalitarian system to an open democratic society. Before this change, stage was the last place of free expression, although under constant threat of repressive regime, when all mainstream media was silent. For Indonesian people, theatre was, and still is, a common social ritual. The stage is considered a place for unrestricted statements. With the political changes and sudden democracy, we suddenly have the other extreme. Everywhere everyone is freely outgoing with their opinions about everything- which has resulted in chaos in a multicultural country with no common consciousness for unity in cultural diversity. The only place where all differences can exist in peace and beautiful harmony is the stage. Stage photography is a challenge with a strong social and political engagement. It currently is my greatest hope and focus to share these photographs of the Indonesian stage through exhibitions or the creation of a book, which I dream will serve as precious evidence of the possibility suggested by art that needs little effort to become a reality. Website :
- http://masdan.wix.com/wongpanggung
- http://www.youtube.com/user/masedan
