Irin Omar, the Deputy Minister of Creative Economy in Indonesia, has announced the organization of a photography contest and exhibition titled "AWAN CERAH 2026," aimed at enhancing the talents of children and youth in photography. The event will be held at Galeri Emira Sonasa, Ismail Marzuki Park in Jakarta, from June 20 to 26, 2026.
This initiative seeks to provide a platform for children and youth to express themselves through the art of photography, where they can learn how to market their work through platforms like Canva and Shutterstock. Irin emphasized that such activities can contribute to creating additional income for them in the future.
Event Details
The contest targets children and youth aged 16 years and under, allowing participants to showcase their photographic works before a jury consisting of prominent figures in the art and design world. Among them are photographer Davy Linggar, architect Jai Subiakto, and fashion designer Didit Hediprasetyo.
This event aims to raise awareness of the creative economy in Indonesia, serving as a first step towards teaching children how to turn their passion for art into a source of income. Participants will also be able to distribute their works through photo-selling platforms, enhancing their chances of reaching a global audience.
Background & Context
Indonesia is known for its rich cultures and traditions, making it a fertile environment for artistic creativity. With the growing interest in creative arts, it has become essential to provide opportunities for youth to explore their skills in areas such as photography. This event aims to promote visual arts as part of the creative economy, aligning with the Indonesian government's vision to develop this sector.
Historically, Indonesia has witnessed numerous cultural and artistic events that have contributed to strengthening national identity. However, the focus on digital arts and photography represents a new shift in how arts are presented in the country.
Impact & Consequences
This initiative is a significant step towards enhancing the arts in Indonesia, as it can lead to increased awareness of the importance of photography as a means of artistic expression. By encouraging children and youth to participate, this event can contribute to developing their skills and boosting their self-confidence.
Moreover, introducing the concept of the creative economy in education can open new horizons for youth, helping them understand how to turn their passion into a future career. This could lead to the emergence of a new generation of artists and creatives who contribute to promoting culture and arts in Indonesia.
Regional Significance
Creative arts are also an essential part of Arab culture, and Arab countries can benefit from Indonesia's experience in nurturing young talents. Such initiatives could serve as a model in the region, contributing to the development of the arts and enhancing cultural identity.
Additionally, cooperation between Arab countries and Indonesia in the field of arts could open new avenues for cultural exchange, fostering mutual understanding and strengthening ties between peoples.