Balinese art has its origin in the richness of the Balinese culture and of the land itself.
There are loose classifications of artistic styles; classical or Kamasan; Ubud style developed in the 1930's under the influence of Pita Maha; Batuan from about the same time; Young Artists, started just after the war and influenced by the Dutch artist Arie Smit, and finally Modern or 'Academic' which is largely creative but always distinctly Balinese.
Museums and galleries can be found all over Bali; only a small selection is shown here.
One of Ubud’s Most Famous Painters
Walter Spies was German but born in 1895 in Moscow, went to Java first and in 1927 to Bali. He was very influential on the Balinese art scene as he pointed out the unique and authentic tradition of the island and cooperated intensely with the local artists.
He encouraged them to go beyond religious and traditional boundaries within art. He inspired them depicting everyday life scenes and not only themes rooted in the Hindu Mythology.
He has been friends with many famour people and hosted famous people from around the world visiting Bali in the 30ies including Charlie Chaplin, who was one of his collectors.
Museums
Neka Art Museum
Jalan Raya Sangingan, Ubud.
The best place to learn about the development of Balinese art.
Bali Museum
Jalan Letkol Wisnu, Denpasar
It has the finest collection of Balinese antiquities.
Museum of Archeology
Jalan Letkol Wisnu, Denpasar
An interesting collection of rediscovered items from Bali's past
