Indonesian artist Heru Japra’s latest exhibition, ‘Pancaran Jiwa: Radiance of the Soul,’ currently on display at the Vanderhoof Library, is more than just a collection of portraits. It’s an invitation to explore the profound beauty that lies within every human being.
“True beauty shows in the eyes, in the gentle incline of the head, in the squaring of the shoulders in times of adversity,” Japra says, adding, “Each of my subjects has showed a glimpse of their inner life and who they truly are.”
Hailing from Depok, West Java, Indonesia, Japra’s expertise lies in portraiture, where he skillfully portrays a diverse range of individuals, from children to politicians, dancers to musicians. His journey as an artist began in 1990 when he first picked up a brush, driven by a passion to create amidst the absence of formal art education in Indonesia.
Despite criticism from fellow artists early in his career, Japra persevered, honing his skills and eventually gaining recognition through group exhibitions. His art reflects not only his Indonesian heritage but also the values instilled by his Muslim faith, offering a unique blend of cultural perspectives.
“I often paint traditional Indigenous dress, depict important Indonesian stories, and typical scenes from village life. Due to colonization, Indonesian traditional culture and tradition is diminishing. I want my pictures to capture something which, unfortunately, may one day be lost.”
Although he has done many exhibitions, street art holds a place in his heart. He enjoys painting “on-the-spot” caricatures and also murals.
Educating children about art is also his passion. In 2020, he co-founded an artists’ association in his city in Indonesia, and with it a free art school for children.
Japra recently immigrated to Canada in Dec. 2023 and he lives north of Fort St. James on an acreage with his wife, Lauren Aldred, two large dogs and eight chickens.
Heru had his first Canadian art exhibition as artist-in-residence at Omineca Arts Centre in Prince George in 2023.
Later this year he has exhibitions booked at Omineca Arts Centre in Prince George, Pope Mountain Arts in Fort St. James and the Quesnel Art Gallery.
He looks forward to developing his art career further in Canada. Japra says Art is a vital way to learn about one another.
Japra says he is influenced by traditional Indonesian art, and by more contemporary artists such as Dullah and Abdul Azis.
“I have enjoyed learned about the “old masters” of Europe and look forward to learning more about Canadian contemporary art.”
He hopes to share his Indonesian heritage, and have a cultural exchange, with artists and the public who come to the exhibition.
“I want to access Canadian culture by painting it, to capture my impressions of Canada while they are new to me, and I hope to give Canadians the gift of seeing their culture with new eyes.”
Pancaran Jiwa: Radiance of the Soul,’ will be on display at the Vanderhoof Library until March 1. A reception and artist talk event will be held at library on Feb. 8 from 7.30 - 9 p.m.