TABANAN, DEWATA.NEWS – Art & Bali is set to return on September 11–13, 2026, at Nuanu Creative City, with a renewed focus on connecting Indonesian artistic expression with international audiences.
Organizers announced that this year’s edition will introduce a new curatorial direction, appointing Bandana Tewari as curator and Brina Paska as assistant curator. The exhibition will explore the intersection of fashion, art, and craftsmanship as part of its central theme.
CEO of Nuanu Creative City, Lev Kroll, stated that the event is designed to address the limited global representation of Indonesian art.
“Indonesia’s cultural landscape is incredibly rich, yet it remains underrepresented on the international art stage,” he said during a press conference on Saturday (March 28, 2026). “Art & Bali is here to bridge that gap.”
Kroll emphasized that art plays a critical role in connecting communities, especially in a fragmented global environment.
“In a world that often feels fragmented, art remains one of the few mediums capable of bringing people together in a shared space. Culture is not an addition—it is essential,” he added.
Fair Director Kelsang Dolma highlighted the importance of maintaining originality in the exhibition format, rather than replicating established international models.
“We are not interested in adopting formats from elsewhere, but in developing an approach that is relevant to Bali and can grow with depth and integrity over time,” she explained.
According to Dolma, Art & Bali aims to build a contemporary platform that balances commercial viability with strong cultural roots.
From a curatorial perspective, Bandana Tewari described Bali as a meaningful setting for this year’s concept.
“This exhibition will explore the intersection of fashion, art, and craft as powerful forms of cultural expression,” she said. “Developing this project in Bali, where craft and ritual are not only preserved but continue to evolve, makes it especially relevant.”
The 2026 edition will feature 20 galleries in its main exhibition program and is expected to surpass last year’s attendance of 10,000 visitors.
Beyond indoor exhibitions, the 44-hectare Nuanu Creative City area will host a range of supporting activities, including discussions, live performances, and site-specific installations.
The event is expected to attract both local and international visitors, reinforcing Bali’s position as a growing hub for contemporary art and cultural exchange.