KBRN, Bantul: As the year comes to a close, Yogyakarta reaffirms its reputation as Indonesia’s art capital with the opening of a compelling new group exhibition titled “Adaptasi Evolusi Eksistensi” (Adaptation, Evolution, Existence).

Running from December 23 to 27, 2025, the showcase brings a profound dialogue on human resilience to the intimate setting of RuangDalam Art House on Jalan Kebayan, Jeblog, Tirtonirmolo, Kasihan, Bantul.

The exhibition presents a powerful convergence of three distinct artistic voices: Alex Danny Santosa, Erica Hestu Wahyuni, and Nabila Larasati Pranoto. 

Through a blend of Naïve art and Surrealism, the trio explores the delicate interplay between humanity and an ever-changing environment. Their paintings and drawings serve as a visual map of how we navigate transformation, tracing the fluid boundaries between survival and growth, memory and renewal.

​Visual artist Alex Danny Santosa discusses his artwork 'Festival of Strength' with a visitor during the 'Adaptasi Evolusi Eksistensi' exhibition on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at RuangDalam Art House, Bantul, Yogyakarta. (Photo: RRI/Diva Rifdah Rizkia Puspitaningnala)​

More than a display of skill, “Adaptasi Evolusi Eksistensi” functions as a creative intervention. By weaving intimate reflections on identity with broader social and ecological commentaries, the artists invite audiences to witness how creativity becomes a vital tool for confronting the present and reimagining the future. 

For Yogyakarta’s art community, this vernissage offers a rare contemplative space to reflect on how we assert our existence in a world that never ceases to evolve.

At the opening, renowned art critic Suwarno Wisetrotomo shared his insights on the creative journey, identifying adaptation, evolution, and existence as essential keys to survival. He noted that while art is often associated with beauty, it is forged through rigorous contestation that matures the artist’s soul.

Suwarno emphasized that the slow, deliberate process of artistic evolution is a necessary act of asceticism to counter modern superficiality. 

“We are currently in a situation that pushes us toward shallowness; nothing can combat this shallowness except the depth found in our creative process and our way of enjoying art,” he remarked on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.

He further explained that existence is the ultimate result of navigating tensions and conversations within the open arena of the art world. “Artistic creation is a process of depth; through the stages of adaptation and evolution, we push ourselves and our communities toward true existence,” he added.

​A visitor admires Erica Hestu Wahyuni’s works Happy Playground, Under the Shade of Prosperity Tree, and Morning Activities in the Village, showcased at the Adaptasi Evolusi Eksistensi exhibition at RuangDalam Art House from December 23-27, 2025. (Photo: RRI/Diva Rifdah Rizkia Puspitaningnala)​

The critic also highlighted a significant gap in the industry, noting the limited number of female artists. He praised the collaboration between Erica, Danny, and Nabila as a model for fostering spaces where creativity thrives and democracy is practiced through diverse interpretations.

Suwarno concluded by underscoring Yogyakarta’s unique spirit of friendship, which allows intense competition to coexist with mutual respect. He believes that through art, society learns to sharpen its humanity and engage in meaningful dialogue that ultimately deepens appreciation for others.

Marking her debut exhibition, Jakarta-born artist Nabila Larasati Pranoto presents seven vibrant oil and acrylic works created between 2023 and 2025. After living in Singapore for 17 years and now residing in Switzerland, the professional architect is finally realizing her childhood dream of becoming an artist.

Nabila’s bold, colorful paintings reflect her personal journey of navigating shifting climates, social environments, and international relocations. “My works reflect my journey moving from Singapore to Switzerland, and how I had to evolve and transform with changing climates, environments, and social situations,” she shared.

Her surrealist and figurative style draws inspiration from global masters such as Salvador Dalí and Marc Chagall, as well as Yogyakarta’s vibrant Naïve art scene. She cites Alex Danny Santosa, Erica Hestu Wahyuni, Eko Nugroho, and Eddie Hara as key influences.

Choosing Yogyakarta for her debut was a deliberate decision, inspired by the city’s status as a global art hub. “I am so happy to have my debut in Yogyakarta because it is a truly inspirational place for the art world, and the artists I admire most are all from here,” she said with pride.

The exhibition celebrates her transition into the art world and her deep connection to Yogyakarta’s creative community. By embracing the complexity of her non-linear journey, Nabila invites viewers to find beauty in the unpredictable cycles of human growth and transformation. ***