A solo exhibition by Yopi Cahyono

As a stage in a journey or a step in a process, as well as a key to unraveling the complexities of changes that occur throughout an artist’s creative journey, the concept of “phase” becomes intriguing to present. It is not just a period but also indicates transformation and metamorphosis in the process of creating art.

This is evident in Yopi Cahyono’s solo exhibition, PHASE, held at the Redbase Foundation, which showcases works from a particular phase in his artistic journey. One could say that Yopi’s works are a culmination of his thoughts and understandings of art, marking a transition from a previous phase to the next.

Technically, the works currently on display show more spontaneous lines. Composition, color, deformed shapes, and medium exploration are characteristic of his artworks. In this phase, Yopi frequently incorporates text or writing, sometimes meaningful or simply as an aesthetic element that underscores the messages he wishes to convey. Occasionally, some texts resemble Jacques Derrida’s “sous rature,” implying words that are inadequate yet still useful. From all that Yopi has done in this phase, a question arises: will the next phase lead to deconstruction? Who knows!

“For the themes of my works, I draw inspiration from daily life, from what I see and feel. These works are like a diary.” [Yopi Cahyono]

From this statement, it is clear that almost all his themes revolve around his daily life. In life, we go through several phases. Here, we can see the phases of Yopi’s life from day to day, week to week, and year to year, depicted through his visual works. Many phases have been experienced, both joys and sorrows, including loss. In this phase, external ideas such as life, nature, society, and text become the common thread, rather than internal ideas like philosophy, illusion, and formalism, which we might find in the next phase.

The solo exhibition PHASE by Yopi Cahyono at the Redbase Foundation is expected to become an event that synergizes aesthetic elements between the artist’s contemplation and the viewers’ ability to feel or enjoy the “beauty.” Additionally, it is hoped that a two-way or even multi-directional dialogue or other forms of appreciation will emerge. In this exhibition, we can also examine the intertwining of the artist’s thoughts with the works displayed.

Finally, as a friend, I wish you a successful exhibition, keep moving forward! Looking forward to the next phase.

Jange Rae