Jakarta (ANTARA News) - About 94 women artists from ASEAN member countries and Japan exhibit paintings and sculptures at the ASEAN Secretariat here from April 17-21, an event dedicated to Kartini Day, which is observed every year on April 21 to celebrate the women`s movement in Indonesia.

The exhibition was officially opened by Minister of Women`s Empowerment and Child Protection Linda Agum Gumelar, who was represented by her secretary Sri Danti, here on Tuesday.

Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Community and Corporate Affairs Bagas Hapsoro, speaking on behalf of ASEAN Secretary General Surin Pitsuwan at the opening ceremony, said the ASEAN Secretariat always encouraged the organization of people-to-people events at the Secretariat building and the use of its facilities.

Themed "Equality in Art", the painting and sculpture exhibition is organized by the ASEAN Women`s Circle (AWC) of Jakarta, Yayasan Seni Rupa Indonesia, Ikatan Wanita Pelukis Wanita Indonesia-Jawa Barat, and Bale Seni Barli, with the support of the ASEAN Secretariat.

The exhibition is displaying the artworks of female artists from Indonesia, the Philippines, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan.

The works being displayed include "Kuserahkan Padamu" by Kartika Affandi (Indonesia), "Seruling Dewi Kahyangan" by Lili Melati (Indonesia), and "Value of Nature, the Mountain" by Fatimah Kumiko Pulukadang (Japan).

The event is also aimed at raising funds for various organizations that deal with issues related to natural disasters, disadvantaged children, and the elderly.

Present at the opening ceremony were, among others, Sranya Natalegawa (the wife of Indonesia`s Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa) and Junisa Alatas (the wife of the late former foreign affairs minister Ali Alatas).

The art exhibition is also highlighted with a bazaar showcasing ASEAN handicrafts and a workshop and discussions on the arts. *
(t. f001/ INE )





(T.F001/B/KR-BSR/F001) 17-04-2012 15:27:51

Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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