S. Sudjojono: Visible Soul

This landmark publication offers the first comprehensive biography of S. Sudjojono, one of the most influential figures in the formation of modern Indonesian art. Tracing his journey from a difficult childhood to his pivotal role in the Indonesian War for Independence, the book reveals how these experiences profoundly shaped Sudjojono’s creative expression. His works from this era—marked by themes of national struggle, the daily lives of ordinary people, and the beauty of the Indonesian landscape—form the cornerstone of his artistic legacy.

S. Sudjojono: Visible Soul also explores the deeply personal dimension of his art, particularly his portraits of his wife, the celebrated singer Rose Pandanwangi Sudjojono, and their daughters. While his compositions may seem direct and accessible, they consistently reflect a profound intellectual depth and an unwavering commitment to technical excellence. Alongside Affandi and Hendra Gunawan, Sudjojono is acknowledged as one of the triumvirate of artists who shaped Indonesia’s modern art history.

Featuring a wealth of reproductions of Sudjojono’s paintings, sketches, and sculptures, this richly illustrated volume offers an essential resource for those interested in modern Southeast Asian art and the development of Indonesian national identity through visual culture.

Publication Details:

• Author: Amir Sidharta
• Publishers: Museum S. Sudjojono and Canna Gallery (2006)
• Language: English
• Format: Hardcover with slipcase
• Pages: 424 pages
• Dimensions: 27 x 32 cm
• ISBN: 9792563709

 Condition:

• Book: Very Good. Light general wear to covers. Foxing to the first and last pages; occasional minor abrasions and faint soiling to a few pages. Internally clean.
• Slipcase: Very Good. Light overall wear with some foxing to the interior.