住所: Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar
A pinch of Dalì, a splash of Mirò and the exuberant nature of Bali animated by sensual feminine figures - we’re speaking of the paintings of Don Antonio Blanco, artist that came to the island in 1952 after many long voyages and who never left. Born in 1911 in Manila to Spanish parents, Blanco brought with him the Catalan style and creativity which still shines in his abode near Ubud. On the hills overlooking the Campuan River, the home-museum is an unexpected jewel - Spanish and Balinese architecture embrace, just as occurred in the life of the painter who married local ballerina Ni Ronji and surrendered forever to the island’s beauty. Lush gardens and a large aviary surround the building, while the extravagant interior evokes the charisma of its first inhabitants. Everything here speaks of “The Fabulous Blanco” - the studio where he painted until the age of 88, the vast hall covered in marble which hosts his masterpieces, the tropical garden where he liked to entertain guests from faraway lands, the collages, the paintings, the lithographs and the illustrated poems which trace his long career. There’s even a gallery dedicated to the works of his son Mario, a painter as well, who opened the home to the public, realising an old desire of his father.
Chinese New Year welcomes the arrival of the Year of the Dragon
Although predominantly Hindu, Bali is home to an important Chinese community which on the occasion of the New Year organizes uniquely aesthetic events with a mix of Chinese traditions, Balinese charm and fusion cuisine.
Written by Balinese scholar Professor I Made Bandem and American art historian Bruce W. Carpenter, this stunning study of masks as an ancient art form is a richly illustrated book, with over 1000 color images by photographer Doddy Obenk.
From a traditional drink to a true national symbol, arak is so important in Bali that it is used not only on intimate and less official occasions such as moments of joy in the family and in conversations between friends, but also in religious ceremonies.