BALINEWSID.COM, BADUNG – Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel Bali is hosting Instilling Batuan, an art exhibition featuring works by renowned Balinese artists I Made Griyawan and Wayan Adi Mataram. Opened on July 24, 2026, the exhibition celebrates the enduring legacy of the Batuan painting tradition while showcasing its evolution through contemporary artistic interpretations.

The Batuan art tradition has deep historical roots, dating back more than a thousand years. Historical records in the Lontar Batuan document the presence of artists and creators in the area as early as 1022 AD, or 944 Saka.

The exhibition brings together two artists from different generations who share a strong artistic connection. Born in 1979, I Made Griyawan and Wayan Adi Mataram, born in 1970, both studied the Batuan style within the same artistic environment, influenced by the legacy of the renowned Batuan painting family of I Wayan Taweng.

Their shared artistic foundation creates an unspoken connection between the two generations, allowing the Batuan tradition to continue while leaving room for individual expression.

The title Instilling Batuan reflects the process of passing down artistic knowledge, as well as the personal ways in which each artist absorbs and reinterprets the Batuan style.

Their works explore Balinese landscapes, stories, and spiritual elements through distinct artistic approaches. Griyawan experiments with a richer color palette, combining vibrant tones with delicate black lines and subtle tonal gradients. Adi Mataram, meanwhile, remains committed to the monochromatic visual language traditionally associated with Batuan painting, emphasizing harmony and balance through black-and-white compositions.

Through a collection of intimate-sized artworks, visitors are invited to explore intricate details, dreamlike landscapes, and imaginative narratives that demonstrate how a traditional art form continues to evolve and find relevance in the contemporary world.

“Batuan painting is part of my life and identity. Growing up in a family of painters taught me that tradition is not simply about repetition, but about continuing a conversation,” said I Made Griyawan.

He said his works seek to demonstrate that Batuan art can remain relevant and vibrant by embracing new forms of expression without losing its cultural roots.

Wayan Adi Mataram said his journey with Batuan painting began at a young age, when he was captivated by the complexity and narrative strength of the tradition.

“The monochromatic style allows me to focus on harmony, balance, and the essence of each story,” he said, adding that the exhibition reflects his respect for the masters who taught him and his commitment to preserving the spirit of Batuan art for future generations.

Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel Bali General Manager Luis Daniel Garcia said the exhibition reflects the hotel’s commitment to providing meaningful cultural experiences while supporting local artists.

“At Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel Bali, we believe hospitality is not only about providing accommodation, but also about creating meaningful cultural experiences,” Garcia said.

He expressed hope that the collaboration would provide a platform for local artists while giving hotel guests and the wider community an opportunity to experience Bali’s cultural richness and creativity.

As part of the hotel’s ongoing commitment to supporting local art and culture, Instilling Batuan offers visitors an opportunity to explore the depth and beauty of Balinese artistic heritage in a comfortable and inspiring beachfront setting.

The exhibition is open to hotel guests and the general public from July 24 to September 24, 2026.