Jeihan

Jeihan was born on September 26, 1938, in Surakarta, Central Java (according to his claim, he was born in Desa Candi, Kecamatan Ampel, Boyolali, Central Java). This expressionist painter began painting at a young age. He studied painting at the Himpunan Budaya Surakarta (HBS). To broaden his horizons, Jeihan went to Bandung, West Java, in 1960. He pursued his education at the Faculty of Visual Arts and Design (FSRD) at the Bandung Institute of Technology. His painting technique is characterized by figurative elements with black eyes and simple flat colors. The hallmark of his paintings can be identified with 'Mata hitam' or 'Mata cekung.' According to some art critics, Jeihan combines Eastern mystical nature with Western analytical nature. His silent works tell a meditative aura. Many interpret that the fully black-painted eyes in Jeihan's paintings symbolize the mysterious darkness on the human path. He blends the mystical aura of the East and the West into his paintings. Jeihan has held exhibitions more than 100 times, published six books, and produced two documentary films. His paintings are highly sought after by critics and collectors. He even has agents in America, Australia, and Europe. Jeihan has painted several well-known figures, including Mari Elka Pangestu and Taufiq Kiemas. Jeihan is also a member of the committee of The World Art and Culture Exchange Association Inc. based in New York. Jeihan founded the Bandung Visual Arts Studio in 1978. The studio became a place for young people to develop their creativity and independence. He has also received numerous awards, including the Pioneer of West Java Visual Arts 2006 and the Bandung City Cultural Award 2009. On May 28-29, 2012, Jeihan held an exhibition entitled "Soul of Art." The exhibition took place at Pacific Place Jakarta.