BEHIND THE JOURNEY - Sungging Suharto Seniman Banyumas

Summary

Bapak Sungging Soeharto, a prominent figure in traditional arts from Purwokerto, shares his journey as an autodidact artist in wayang and gamelan. Despite lacking formal education, he has become a significant cultural figure, dedicating his life to preserving and teaching Indonesia's rich artistic traditions. He discusses the challenges of maintaining cultural heritage in the modern era, the role of younger generations in safeguarding traditions, and the importance of community support in keeping these arts alive. His message is a call to action for the next generation to understand, love, and continue the cultural legacy.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sungging Soeharto, a traditional Javanese artist, discusses his journey as a puppeteer, painter, and gamelan musician from Purwokerto, Central Java.
• 🎭 Sungging was born into an artistic environment and did not receive formal art education, but his passion for the arts developed naturally.
• 💡 He believes that perseverance and effort are key to success, even for artists who face financial hardships, especially in the earlier years of their careers.
• 📚 Despite lacking formal education, Sungging has become a respected figure in traditional arts, promoting cultural preservation and sharing his knowledge.
• 🏅 In 2008, Sungging was elected as the leader of a cultural association in Banyumas, a position he took on after the community trusted his expertise in wayang (puppetry) and gamelan music.
• 🎶 Sungging established an art studio in 2009, offering private lessons and training, though he initially struggled to attract enough participants.
• 🛠️ He emphasizes that traditional arts need continuous support from both the government and private institutions to remain viable.
• 👨‍🎓 Sungging encourages young people to engage in traditional arts, such as gamelan music and wayang, and to appreciate their cultural heritage.
• 🌍 He stresses that cultural preservation is not just about understanding traditions, but also about fostering love and respect for them to ensure they endure.
• 👥 Sungging believes that it’s the responsibility of the younger generation to continue preserving their cultural roots, as they will be the ones to carry the tradition forward.
• 🕊️ He explains traditional Javanese rituals, like those in the arts and ceremonies, which hold spiritual and cultural significance, guiding life and protecting communities.

Q & A

What is the background of Bapak Sungging Soeharto in the arts?

Bapak Sungging Soeharto is a self-taught artist from Purwokerto, Central Java. He did not receive formal training in the arts but developed his skills organically, starting from a young age. Despite financial challenges, he pursued his passion for traditional arts such as puppetry, painting, and gamelan music.

How did Bapak Soeharto become involved in community cultural work?

In 2008, Bapak Soeharto was elected as the head of the Persatuan Pedalaman Indonesia in Banyumas, a cultural organization focused on preserving traditional arts. His leadership role was not initially sought, but his peers trusted him due to his knowledge and dedication to cultural preservation.

What challenges did Bapak Soeharto face in his artistic journey?

Bapak Soeharto faced financial difficulties that prevented him from receiving formal education in the arts. Additionally, he had to overcome the challenge of financial constraints in pursuing and teaching the arts, as well as limited resources for promoting traditional arts in his community.

What is Bapak Soeharto's view on the younger generation's role in cultural preservation?

Bapak Soeharto believes that it is the responsibility of the younger generation to actively engage in and preserve their cultural heritage. He encourages them to learn about traditional arts like gamelan and wayang and stresses the importance of both understanding and loving these traditions to ensure their survival.

What does Bapak Soeharto think is necessary for preserving traditional arts?

He emphasizes the need for active participation in cultural practices, not just passive understanding. This includes engaging in performances, learning the arts, and supporting cultural events. He also points out that financial investment and institutional support, such as events organized by universities, are crucial for sustaining these traditions.

How does Bapak Soeharto encourage youth to engage with gamelan music?

Bapak Soeharto encourages young people to explore gamelan music by learning about its instruments and traditions. He suggests that students form their own gamelan groups and participate in workshops or events that promote this art form, as a way to both understand and preserve it.

What are some of the specific ways Bapak Soeharto has contributed to cultural preservation?

Bapak Soeharto has contributed to cultural preservation by teaching traditional arts through private lessons and workshops, leading a cultural organization, and encouraging youth participation in cultural events. He has also been involved in public performances and lectures about traditional arts, particularly gamelan and wayang.

What role do cultural events, such as those organized by UIN, play in preserving culture?

Cultural events like those held at UIN play a vital role in promoting traditional arts by providing a platform for young people to learn about and engage in practices like gamelan music. These events also help raise awareness about the importance of cultural preservation within the community.

What does Bapak Soeharto say about the financial challenges of cultural preservation?

Bapak Soeharto acknowledges that preserving culture requires significant financial investment. He notes that organizing performances and events can be costly, but believes that through community collaboration and institutional support, these traditions can be sustained even on a limited budget.

How does Bapak Soeharto describe the importance of cultural identity in the context of traditional arts?

Bapak Soeharto views traditional arts as an essential part of cultural identity. He emphasizes that by preserving and participating in these arts, people can better understand their heritage and pass it on to future generations, ensuring that their cultural roots remain strong.