Gajah Gallery is delighted to announce its participation in Frieze Masters 2023, showcasing the work of the late artist I Gusti Ayu Kadek Murniasih (Murni) (1966 - 2006). Amid a male-dominated Indonesian art world, Murni was a singular force, painting grotesque and honest depictions of the body, sexuality, and the depths of her subconscious.
Focusing on Murni's earlier works in the 1990s, the pieces in this presentation highlight a crucial period of transformation for the artist, as she honed her artistic voice and delved deeper into her interiority. Her works are part of the fair's Spotlight section, which is dedicated to pioneers of avant-garde art from across the world.
Working as an artist in Bali from the mid-90s to the early 2000s, Murni constantly defied stereotypes: She challenged themes that then defined Balinese art, such as myth and legend—focusing instead on the deeply personal. She defied limits imposed on women artists, unapologetically depicting sex and desire—subjects then considered taboo in Bali, especially for women. She saw art as a way to heal from sexual trauma she experienced as a child, yet painted not only her pain, but also her pleasures.
Her work will be displayed at the upcoming Taipei Biennale 2023: Small World, as well as the Biennale of Sydney 2024: Ten Thousand Suns. Murni's work has been collected and exhibited in institutions across Asia, Australia and the United States, such as the Museum MACAN (Modern and Contemporary Art in Nusantara); the National Gallery Singapore; the National Gallery of Australia; the National Gallery of Art, Washington DC; and the 58th edition of Carnegie International.
Date
Wednesday Preview, October 11 (invitation only): 11am – 7pm
Thursday Preview, October 12: (Members and invitation only preview 11am – 1pm). 1pm – 7pm general admission tickets
Friday, October 13: 11am – 7pm
Saturday, October 14: 11am – 7pm
Sunday, October 15: 11am - 6pm
Location
The Regent's Park, London