Borobudur Lantern Festival

Yaya Maria, Indonesia

Yaya Maria, born in Temanggung on December 5, has loved painting since childhood and began serious training under a mentor in 2021. Since then, she has been actively involved in numerous exhibitions across Indonesia, including Yogyakarta, Kediri, Surabaya, Bandung, Jakarta, Solo, Magelang, and Bali. Her works have been showcased in prestigious venues such as Taman Budaya Yogyakarta, Museum Sonobudoyo, ISI Yogyakarta, Museum Monjali, Taman Ismail Marzuki Jakarta, and international events like Kecil Itu Keren at TIM Jakarta. Yaya’s artistic journey is also marked by participation in themed exhibitions on culture, women’s empowerment, and inclusivity, reflecting her vibrant creativity and commitment to Indonesian art.

Artwork Description:

“Borobudur Lantern Festival” by Yaya Maria (2025) is more than a cultural depiction; it is a reflection on environment and humanity. The floating lanterns illuminating the night sky symbolize hope, prayers, and the shared light of human brotherhood. Yet, the artwork also reveals a fragility: traditions risk losing meaning when reduced to commercial spectacle, leaving local communities marginalized. The figure holding a small candle embodies humility and compassion, reminding us to sustain balance between cultural rituals, environmental preservation, and social justice. This painting conveys that true light emerges not from grandeur, but from solidarity and genuine care for one another.