SEMSAR SIAHAAN
b. 1952, IndonesiaSemsar Siahaan (1952-2005) was an icon of art activism in Indonesia. A fervent humanitarian activist, Siahaan fought courageously during a time of vast changes to Indonesia’s political landscape, which reflects in his body of work. His keen and incisive social commentary through his art was an integral part of the anti-dictatorship and pro-people movement of the 1990s. Semsar was known for leading the rebellious student art movement of the 1980s, and the various labor rights activism the following decade.
His installations and some of his paintings and drawings dealt directly with the abuse of human rights, and have become important signifiers of a distinct political climate in young contemporary Southeast Asia. Semsar’s work mostly exuded a sense of realism as he always intended to immortalise humanism, challenging the social injustices that occurred. His frequently mentioned works included Olympia: Identity with Mother and Child and the magnificent G-8 Pizza.
Courtesy Gajah Gallery
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