Open Up with Boedi Widjaja

Our Project Manager, Alessandra Cianetti, talks to artist Boedi Widjaja through the Open Up series. Premiering at 3pm BST on Wednesday 2 September, we ask some probing questions to Boedi such as, ‘If you could be remembered for one thing what would it be?’ and ‘What are you most afraid of?’. Through these questions, we explore what drives him, inspires him, terrifies him; and ultimately what is most important to him. Living through this incredible period of history, we want to take stock and ask artists to open up to us through this interview series.

Biography

Boedi Widjaja (b. 1975, Solo City, Indonesia) migrated to Singapore at age 9 due to ethnic tensions, separated from his parents. His practice draws on his own transmigrant lived experiences, researching diaspora and homelands; Indo-Asia-Pacific geopolitics; and cross-cultural hybridities. Trained as an architect and with a background in graphic design, the techniques, materials and tools of drawing have become a defining element of Widjaja’s artistic practice. This is expressed through a broad range of media, from photography and new media to architectural installations and Live Art, with an emphasis on process and bodily engagement. Widjaja was recipient of the Singapore Art Museum and QAGOMA co-commission for a large-scale architectural and sound installation for the 9th Asia Pacific Triennial and the 6th Singapore Biennale. Recent presentations – MAP1: Waterways (2017), Diaspora Pavilion, 57th Venice Biennale; Jerusalem Biennale (2017); Yinchuan Biennale (2016); and From east to the Barbican (2015), London.