Ocean: Group Exhibition

The ocean, originating from the Greek mythological figure Okeanós, serves as an indispensable entity for life on Earth. Covering over 70.8% of the planet's surface and holding 97% of its water, it stands as a vital regulator of the global climate, responsible for producing more than half of the world's oxygen and providing a substantial food source. Despite its immense significance, human exploitation of the ocean spans centuries, driven by the need for resources such as salt, seafood, and transportation. However, with the onset of the Industrial Revolution, particularly in Europe and the United States during the 19th century, and its subsequent global spread, the ocean has suffered substantial damage. Activities such as industrial waste dumping, oil leaks from shipping, and extensive trash disposal have inflicted significant harm, exacerbating global crises such as climate change, health issues, and food shortages.

Bali, renowned globally as a picturesque tourist destination, is not immune to the scourge of ocean pollution. Despite its natural beauty, the island grapples with the harsh reality of plastic waste and pollution, serving as a sobering reminder of the global crisis and its detrimental effects on marine ecosystems. This stark contrast between Bali's allure and the environmental challenges it faces underscores the urgency of addressing the issue on a global scale.

The cultural heritage of Bali, reflected in its various names like Bali, Wali, or Banten Island, embodies a deep-seated ethos of reciprocity with nature. The name "Bali," meaning "to give back" or "to return to God," underscores the Balinese practice of daily offerings, symbolizing a philosophy that emphasizes harmony between humanity and the natural world. This philosophy finds tangible expression in Balinese ceremonies and traditions, notably in the concept of Segara Gunung. "Segara," meaning ocean or sea, and "Gunung," meaning mountain or land, illustrate the unity of these realms, where actions on land have reverberations in the ocean, and vice versa.

Within Balinese culture, water holds profound symbolic significance, symbolizing purity and holiness. Spiritual sites dedicated to water, ranging from small streams to the vast ocean, underscore the Balinese reverence for this vital element. Despite this reverence, modern challenges such as pollution threaten to disrupt the delicate balance between humanity and nature. Balinese ancestors, like other Austronesian peoples, developed sophisticated systems for water cleanliness over millennia, offering valuable lessons for present and future generations.

In response to these challenges, an exhibition has been curated to raise awareness, particularly among the younger generation, about the ocean's beauty and significance. Through artistic representation, the exhibition aims to inspire new perspectives on the ocean, portraying it not as a realm of death and mystery, but as a vibrant source of life. By creatively presenting ocean stories and showcasing its diverse life forms, the exhibition seeks to engage and educate audiences, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of this vital ecosystem.

Richard Nixon Tambalo

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