DENPASAR (indo.com): Two young Balinese painters, Made Mahendra Mangku and Made Galung Wiratmaja, are displaying their works with the theme 'Two-side Equally' at Gallery Sembilan in Lodtunduh Village, Ubud in Bali. The exhibition will run through October 8, 2001.

"one of Wiratmaja's paintings"

Despite their similarities in style, the painters have their own distinctive characteristics. Mahendra Mangku's works are semi abstract, with new exploration as his main allure. The atmosphere is that of mystery, with mauve and bluish purple as his favorite colors. Having completed his art studies in Udayana University, Galung has taken an introspective approach to exploring the life around him.

Sembilan Gallery primarily focuses on presenting the works of young Balinese artists working in abstract and expressionist genres. The gallery's mission is to provide a premiere, professional venue for highly promising young artists and to establish supportive artists. It also aims to create a participatory environment in which artists can exchange and cultivate their ideas and skills.

Seniwati Gallery
Meanwhile, Seniwati Gallery of Art by Women, also in Ubud, is displaying works by Indonesian artist Siti Komariya Hanny. The solo exhibition with the theme 'Black and White' will run through October 3, 2001.

Born in Klaten, Central Java, in 1975, Hanny developed her intricate techniques through experimentation; she uses a circular motion to develop delicate shading, and a close up view reveals just how exquisite such a technique can be.

Established in 1991, the Seniwati Gallery exists to promote, support and encourage women artists who live and work in Bali. To date, the gallery has displayed and sold works by over 70 serious women artists. With up 50 years of experience in their various styles, these women represent a wide variety of traditional and contemporary styles and techniques.