Adi Gunawan | Reaching For The Stars (III)

Courtesy of the artist and Ode to Art 

Born in Yogyakarta in 1974, Adi Gunawan received his education at Institut Seni Indonesia (ISI), Yogyakarta. He is a prominent Indonesian sculptor known for his distinctive and often playful and satirical bronze sculptures. Gunawan uses symbols to explores themes related to human behaviour, social issues, and cultural traditions. He also often incorporates elements of Indonesian folklore and everyday life in his work. Growing up in an agrarian society, the symbiotic and mystical relationship between animals and humans is an important theme that the artist hopes to convey to audiences. 

Adi Gunawan represented Indonesia at the Beijing Olympics 2008 Fine Arts Exhibition, where he received an Olympic Torch Award. He has had several solo exhibitions in Singapore and Indonesia, including Unveiling (2025), Menjaga Api Tetap Menyala (2022), and Abundance and Happiness (2020).

Reaching for the Stars (III) captures a tender scene of familial support and aspiration. Sculpted with Gunawan's characteristic rounded forms, three children are depicted climbing a ladder. This action symbolises ambition, growth, and the pursuit of one’s goals. Their parents are positioned at the base of the ladder, providing a sense of security and stability. Their anchoring presence speaks to the power of parental guidance, protection, and encouragement.