Yogyakarta is not just famous for its royal palace and street food, it’s also the heart of Indonesia’s creative soul. One shining example is ARTJOG, the biggest art exhibition in the country.
Table of Contents
More than just a regular art event, ARTJOG is where tradition meets modern creativity. It’s a place where both seasoned artists and newcomers gather to share stories through installations, paintings, performances, and multimedia experiences. Whether you’re an art lover or just someone who enjoys beautiful things, ARTJOG has something magical for everyone.
What’s ARTJOG?
ARTJOG is an annual contemporary art exhibition held in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It was first created to give space for Indonesian artists to explore their ideas and connect with a wider audience. Over time, it has grown into a cultural phenomenon, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the world.
What makes ARTJOG special is how it blends traditional Indonesian elements with futuristic expressions, turning art into a dialogue between the past and the future. Each year, ARTJOG has a specific theme that guides all the works on display. These themes invite reflection on social, cultural, environmental, or philosophical issues that affect us all.
ARTJOG Exhibition History
The story of ARTJOG began in 2008, originally called “Jogja Art Fair.” It was founded by a group of artists and curators who believed that Yogyakarta needed a platform where art was not only shown but also celebrated and experienced. From small beginnings, ARTJOG steadily became more ambitious and well-known.
Through the years, ARTJOG has featured the works of big names in Indonesian art as well as fresh talent. It has also expanded its content, from static paintings to interactive displays, digital art, live performances, and even art-based products.
ARTJOG is also known for supporting young artists through its “Young Artist Award” program, proving its commitment to the future of Indonesian creativity.
ARTJOG Period
ARTJOG is usually held between June and September each year, depending on the annual agenda. The event lasts for about two months, giving plenty of time for visitors to come and enjoy the various artworks and performances.
Each day, different experiences await, from discussions with artists, music shows, guided tours, workshops, to art markets. The exhibition is open from 10 AM to 9 PM, making it easy for both locals and tourists to plan their visit.
Experience ARTJOG 2025 Motif: Amalan at Jogja National Museum
ARTJOG 2025 brings the theme “Amalan”, which means practice, devotion, or meaningful actions. The idea behind this theme is to remind us that art is not only for viewing but also a form of action, something we do with intention and care.
This year, ARTJOG is being held at the Jogja National Museum, a cultural space known for its charming colonial-style building and spacious exhibition halls. The museum itself adds character to the whole experience, with airy rooms and a garden where pop-up markets and food trucks complete the vibe.
The ARTJOG 2025 exhibition will officially begin with an invitation-only Opening Ceremony on Friday, 20 June 2025, from 4 PM to 7 PM. After that, the event will open to the public on the same day from 7 PM to 9 PM, and continue daily from 21 June to 31 August 2025, operating from 10 AM to 9 PM.
The exhibition remains open every day, including public and religious holidays. Entrance tickets are valid for one day only. The admission fee is IDR 80,000 for adults and IDR 50,000 for children aged 6 to 15 years. Children under the age of 6 years can enter for free.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just curious, ARTJOG is an event that lets you feel the heartbeat of Indonesia’s art scene. Visiting ARTJOG 2025 will not only entertain you, but it will also leave you thinking and feeling something meaningful.
With the theme “Amalan,” ARTJOG invites you to reflect on your practices and passions. You can check the agenda in advance through ARTJOG official website or their official Instagram @artjog.id.