Born in Silakarang, Gianyar, Bali on March 24^th, 1977 to a family of wood carvers, sculptors and painters, for Aji, drawing and painting was a part of daily life even before he started school.  Aji attended an art high school in Gianyar Bali and has a Bachelor’s of Art from Indonesia’s renowned Institute of Art in Yogjakarta, Jawa.

Made Aswino Aji art not only reflects a creative artistic process but also a point of view on the phenomenon of modern life.  Aji’s paintings, photography and installation pieces, use figures, portraits and architecture to depict themes of ostracization, isolation, and loneliness.  Individuals no longer see others as community, but rather competition, not just on an individual level, but also on a global level in an arena without boundaries.  Each person must now have qualities to struggle on a global scale.  Modern day technological advances are viewed as stairs that can lead upward to success but can also lead us backwards.  New choices and opportunities are like doors leading us down unknown paths.  This insecurity is compounded by increasingly competitive economies and work, which can leave one feeling cornered, and without hope.  But look a little closer and see the real beauty of Aji’s work, there is hope: a common longing for something more.  Compassion, beauty and human solidarity is seen for example, by simply looking out the window of our modern day box. 

Email : aswinoaji@sikagallery.info or aswinoaji@yahoo.co.uk, aswinoaji77@multiply.com