Nyoman Nuarta on shaping the future of Indonesian architecture

Carrying the will of Indonesia’s president, one legendary sculptor and architect is on a mission to build a nation’s pride and one of the most critical structures in the country.

With an enviable portfolio, including national treasures like the Garuda Wisnu Kencana, Nyoman Nuarta needs no introduction to the realm of sculpture and architecture.

Today, his involvement in the design of the upcoming presidential palace complex in the new capital city of Indonesia, along with various critical structures, marks a pivotal moment in Indonesia’s architectural history.

His creations always inspires awe, and the imposing 230-metre presidential palace building will be another architectural marvel and potent symbol of national identity and unity. As we delve into Nyoman’s mind, it becomes evident that his work is an intricate culmination of Indonesia’s rich cultural diversity and a visionary’s dream of a harmonious future. Where art and architecture intertwine in a sublime dance, and the beauty of form meets the profundity of function.

Our in-depth interview reveals a man deeply rooted in his cultural heritage yet forward-thinking in his environmental approach. The Installasi Pengolahan Air Limbah (IPAL) design, as an example of his innovative spirit, transforms a utilitarian liquid waste processing structure into an artistic sanctuary, subtly educating and inspiring.

As Nyoman discusses his pivotal role in the Ibu Kota Nusantara project, or “IKN”, as he refers to it, one can sense his work’s profound impact on future generations, leaving a legacy where art and nature coexist in harmonious synergy.

This dialogue is not just an exploration of Nyoman’s artistic journey; it’s a glimpse into the future of Indonesian architecture and a reflection of a nation’s aspirations, dreams, and identity. Join us as we unveil the thoughts of a visionary whose hands sculpt the future skyline of a nation.

How has your longstanding reputation and experience as an artist influenced your approach to designing major structures like the Garuda-inspired presidential palace in the IKN project?
The architectural design of the new presidential office in the heart of Indonesia will capture the imagination, with its imposing structure more than a mere administrative hub. I wanted a design that transcends traditional concepts of government buildings, aiming to serve not only as a modern architectural marvel but also as a dignified representation of the era. No other symbol comes close to the Garuda in this regard.

Furthermore, we consciously decided to eschew overt ethnic motifs, reflecting Indonesia’s rich cultural mosaic of over 1,300 distinct ethnic groups. This approach ensures the building is a unifying symbol, fostering national unity while avoiding the pitfalls of ethnic favouritism. The Garuda motif is elegantly integrated into the design, not in a literal sense, but as a refined abstraction that complements the building’s contemporary form, ensuring its architectural integrity and symbolic resonance.

The IPAL design is notably unique, transforming a functional structure into a work of art. What inspired this innovative approach, and how do you foresee it enhancing the urban landscape of IKN Nusantara?
The genesis of IPAL lies in the sun-dappled memories of my childhood in Tabanan. In this Balinese village, life unfolds in the calm embrace of natah, or traditional courtyard houses. Here, nestled amidst every garden, were chicken coops woven from fragrant bamboo – simple structures yet brimming with quiet artistry. In these unassuming forms, I discovered the seeds of inspiration, not through grand pronouncements but through playful exploration.

Scaling these coops in childhood games, I dreamt of shapes that defied the ordinary, surreal geometries that whispered of possibilities unexplored. This playful spirit infuses IPAL, transforming the often-neglected realm of sanitation into a captivating oasis. The woven bamboo cages dance amongst verdant pathways, inviting curiosity to linger and engage. It’s in this playful engagement that the true magic unfolds. Visitors become active participants, stewards of a space reborn, where the once-dreaded waste processing facility evolves into a vibrant, welcoming haven.

As the principal designer for various key infrastructures in IKN, including mosques and bridges, how do you balance aesthetic appeal with practical functionality?
In 1991, I created a technique for precisionenlarging architectural forms. This revelation ignited a new philosophy – Archsculpt. It’s not simply about aesthetics or function; it’s about the exhilarating fusion where they become one. Every curve and contour serves a purpose, and every practical element sings beautifully.

Archsculpt liberates us from the constraints of static, boxy structures. We breathe life into buildings, transforming them into dynamic sculptures that shelter and inspire. This technique grants us absolute control over form, ensuring intricate designs flawlessly translate into reality. No longer a gamble between beauty and practicality, Archsculpt offers a harmonious union where function and aesthetics exist in a symbiotic embrace.

President Joko Widodo personally requested your involvement in the bridge design for IKN Nusantara. What was your creative process for meeting this prestigious assignment?
Bridges hold a potential beyond mere passage; they can become monumental statements, transformative landmarks that breathe life into their surroundings. Imagine a bridge traversing a river and weaving itself into the urban fabric, its silhouette an iconic beacon drawing the world’s eye.

My vision, however, often needs to be revised with the limitations of budget and conventional structural logic. While cost calculations reign supreme, I yearn to push boundaries and craft bridges that defy expectations and enrich the landscape they inhabit. This is the delicate dance between artistic ambition and fiscal reality, a constant negotiation that fuels my creative fire.

“Each design decision and brick laid will be a testament to our ability to craft a city that whispers progress and respect for the planet.”

Your designs often feature porous facades to enhance natural ventilation. How important is sustainability in your architectural ethos, particularly in a tropical climate like Kalimantan?
The presidential palace rises with a revolutionary cooling system woven into its very fabric. We have harnessed nature’s own whisper – the wind – to offer natural air conditioning. Using perforated wind grids adorning the buildings, guiding soft breezes through their honeycomb patterns. The grids are made from brass and help hot air flow upward. The hotter winds outside, yearning for their cooler brethren within, dance seamlessly into the spaces, carrying away the warmth in their embrace. This elegant air ballet transforms the ambient 30°C into a soothing 21°C haven, a testament to the power of ingenuity in harmony with nature.

Given the future significance of IKN Nusantara, what does it mean to you personally and professionally to play such a central role in its development?

As the torch of IKN’s creation passes to our generation, we hold it as a blueprint and a pledge. A pledge to build more than structures – to build self-confidence, a legacy of environmental stewardship, and a future etched in sustainability. Each design decision and brick laid will be a testament to our ability to craft a city that whispers progress and respect for the planet.

“My legacy rests not on monuments of steel and stone but on the whispered harmony between creation and nature.”

Finally, as an artist deeply involved in shaping Indonesia’s future through IKN Nusantara, what legacy do you hope to leave for future generations?
As an artist shaping IKN Nusantara, my legacy rests not on monuments of steel and stone but on the whispered harmony between creation and nature. Imagine an IKN adorned with buildings and living sculptures sculpted by sunlight, where wind paints murals on rustling leaves, and the landscape becomes a canvas for art. I envision a future where nature and artistry intertwine, whispering a timeless tale of Indonesia’s soul to future generations.

The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.

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