The Balinese Art Collection

Learn more about this collection, featuring traditional Balinese folk art.

The Balinese collection is a compilation of classical-style paintings on cotton cloth from Bali, an Indonesian island off the coast of mainland Southeast Asia between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. These two-dimensional works are painted with natural dyes that are limited by availability. The vibrant imagery emphasizes regional traditions, ceremonies, festivals, and stories. Because most renderings of figures are made as articles of faith or temple hangings, the ornate embellishments follow strict rules. The paintings are usually produced collaboratively, and the creators remain anonymous. This style of painting has Hindu-Javanese origins, developed by artisans on Java. These techniques and subject matter reached Bali in the 14th century. Today East Bali is the epicenter of Balinese folk art.

This collection was gifted to the UMGC Arts Program by long-term art supporter Emory Trosper. In 1975, shortly after becoming the director of admissions and registrations for what was then known as the Far East division, Trosper traveled through Asia, exploring as far as Indonesia. On his journeys to Bali, he became charmed by Balinese art and culture. Trosper acquired a variety of storylines in the collection he donated to UMGC.