From affectionate letters to personal mementoes, “”Namaku Pram” Catatan & Arsip” reveals the side of Pramoedya Ananta Toer that is untold to many. Held in Dia.Lo.Gue Artspace, this exhibition shines the spotlight on this significant figure in Indonesian literature, through a one-month long exhibition.
A novelist, documentator and avid notetaker, Pramoedya or known to his peers by his nickname “Pram”, produced more than 50 titles throughout his life that have been translated into over 40 languages. But rather than his acclaimed oeuvres, the exhibition delves more into the life of Pramoedya.
Upon entering the space, patrons are being taken through a clear timeline of Pramoedya’s life that details notable occasions from his birth in 1925 to his passing in 2006, along with a slew of important moments such as his imprisonment by the Dutch (during colonialism period) and Suharto’s regime.
His experience in the latter is displayed under a stretch of glass case, showing postcards from Pram’s family members during his 14 years of imprisonment. Letters from his wife, Maemunah Thamrin, as well as daughters and son, chronicle their pining for Pram, an irreplaceable husband and father figure to the family.
Pramoedya is oft-presented as an industrious man with his unceasing efforts in advocating people’s rights and freedom of expression. Another integral part of the exhibition also puts a magnifying glass on this side of his personality, that is represented through unreleased notes and manuscripts – produced during his captivity in the Island of Buru – in Pram’s original handwriting.
This intimate look towards the life of Pramoedya offers a rare opportunity to take a peek into what has shaped and moved him into becoming one of the most treasured characters in the country’s literary sphere.
“Namaku Pram” Catatan & Arsip is open to public until 3rd of June y 2018 at Dia.Lo.Gue Artspace, every day from 10am-9pm.
For more info about the exhibition and Dia.Lo.Gue Artspace, visit https://dialogue-artspace.com or their Instagram at @dialogue_arts.
