Eastern Indonesian Artists Receive Danish Grants
Jakarta. Artists in Eastern Indonesia have received Rp 300 million ($22,500) in funding through a partnership between the Danish Government and the Ministry of Education and Cultural Affairs.
"The reason why we give donation for art and culture is because we think that art and culture could enhance development and support local artists, which then can boost Indonesia economic growth," Danish Ambassador to Indonesia Casper Klynge said at his residence in Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta, on Monday night (20/06).
Klynge said his government believed the grants can make a differences
"Arts and culture can play a key role in contributing to increasing tolerance and paving the way for dialogue instead of conflict, all of which are integral to achieving continued peaceful development in Indonesia and beyond," Klynge said, adding he had help from Indonesia's Minister for Education Anies Baswedan to launch the project.
Indonesia Directorate General for Culture chief Hilmar Farid said the project is good stimulation for local artist and cultural activities.
"With this grant scheme, we can reach people who have talent and help them express their desire for art and it will inspire others to do the same," Hilmar said.
The "Hibah Cipta Perdamaian" ("Peacemaking Art Grants") are handed out to artists in eastern areas of Indonesia after undergoing a selection process and deliberation panel.
Fatih Kudus Jaelani, a grantee from Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB), spoke with the Jakarta Globe about the process.
"We have communities and networks in NTB for [art and culture]. We were invited to a workshop which is part of the grant scheme and we created proposals," Fatih said.
Fatih, who is interested in poetry, will devote the funding to his passion.
"We will use this grant for projects in poem books and performing arts," he stated.
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