Hybrid Aesthetics in Contemporary Crafts: The Presence of Sustainable Art and Craft and Vernacular Themes in the Wayang Performances in Indonesia

Abstract

Contemporary art is often an alternative field of experimentation for creating works that combine traditional and modern elements. Wayang is an art form in Indonesia, that combines traditional ideas and practices with the contemporary leading to hybrid forms. This research examines hybrid aesthetics in the work of the Wayang artists, and reveals its role in producing sustainable art by using contemporary craft material. It employs qualitative research method and a case study approach. Data collection techniques included observations, in-depth interviews, documentation, and literature studies. Data was analyzed using qualitativeinteractive techniques. Findings show that the aesthetics expressed by the artists through artistic idioms give rise to ‘hybrid aesthetics’ of Wayang. Hybrid aesthetics in an artist's work in transcending and positioning itself in the third space by actualizing the work through the mode of traditional thinking, integrating hybrid elements, and adopting aspects of memory. Hybrid aesthetics has a vital role as a sustainable art and space for civilization implementable through Wayang visuals in craft works, learning media, and awareness media. The study concludes that four unique roles support the development of sustainable art through cultural preservation. They are: artistic innovation, environmental awareness, local community empowerment, and opening intercultural dialog. Hybrid, as a strategy in aesthetics to find characteristics, knowledge, and existence, contributes to the transition of media for sustainable art by creating an open dialog space where values and perceptions of cultural heritage can be negotiated.