The Journey of Happiness: Exploring the Beauty in The Process
BANDUNG, itb.ac.id – The Integrated Service Unit of Institut Teknologi Bandung (ULT ITB), named Information Center ITB (IC ITB, pronounced "I See ITB"), officially began operations following its inauguration on Wednesday (3/7/2024) at ITB Ganesha Campus. One of the most captivating features upon entering IC ITB is the array of paintings by John Martono, S.Sn., M.Sn., a lecturer from the Craft and Tradition Research Group, Faculty of Art and Design (FAD) at ITB. These paintings, titled "The Journey of Happiness," not only decorate the room but also carry profound meanings aligned with the academic spirit and the journey of happiness experienced by the ITB academic community.
John Martono, known for his unique techniques in creating paintings and murals, presents three works under the overarching theme "The Journey of Happiness." Each artwork uses different media and sizes, but all convey the essence of a journey toward happiness.
The first painting, measuring 300 x 200 cm, was created in 2024 using polyester, cotton, and textile paint. It is located in the central part of the IC ITB room. The painting and hand embroidery techniques used add texture and dimension to the piece.
The second painting, with a diameter of 100 cm, was made in 2023 using the same medium but on a smaller scale. This piece can be found on the left side of the entrance to IC ITB.
The third work, on the right side of the IC ITB entrance, measures 300 x 80 cm, and was also created in 2024, using plywood, resin, and acrylic paint.
All three pieces reflect the journey of happiness through the artist's creative process and personal reflection.
He explained that the concept of "The Journey of Happiness" was born from his years of experience as an artist. His creative process is influenced by the dynamics of life, both joys and sorrows, which he then pours into his art.
"Happiness lies in the process, not in the outcome. And even though it can be complicated, just be happy. That’s why I work with full spirit and energy," he said.
John began his career as a textile artist and gained international recognition. However, he decided to combine textile art with painting, creating unique and meaningful works.
"I initially made paintings for dresses using silk. But it was hard to sell them in dress form, so I turned them into interior pieces. That's where I combined textile art with painting. Interestingly, it first became a hit abroad, not in Indonesia," he shared.
Each painting in "The Journey of Happiness" series reflects a vibrant and emotional journey of life. The dominant blue in his works at the ITB Information Center was carefully chosen to represent ITB’s identity, known for its blue color.
The use of hand embroidery in John’s work adds a personal touch to each painting. He explained that this technique not only enhances the aesthetic but also provides a new dimension in expressing his feelings. In the creation process, John starts with painting, followed by the stitching process.
Through his works, John Martono aims to convey to the entire ITB academic community and the general public who visit that happiness is a process to be enjoyed, despite the challenges and complexities. He emphasized that the ITB academic community, especially students, should savor every moment of their journey at ITB.
The presence of these paintings at IC ITB, the hub of all information at ITB, invites everyone to reflect on the meaning of happiness in life. He hopes that his work can inspire others to find happiness in their own life journeys.
Reporter: Iko Sutrisko Prakasa Lay (Mathematics, 2021)
Translator: Anggi Nurdiani (Management, 2024)
Editor: Hanifa Juliana (Urban and Regional Planning, 2020)
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