蘇加那·克爾頓

The work is in very good condition overall. There is evidence of light wear and handling around the edges of the work. Examination under ultraviolet light shows there are a few very minor repairs predominately scattered on the middle section. The canvases have been stitched by the artist due to the large size. Framed.
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"Each work of art I make is the result of my ability to express and communicate these inner feelings, to breathe the life into the subject through my grasp on the constructive force, the spirit of life. I am part of every subject I paint, I share the feelings, the happiness, the misery, the hunger or thirst, the rain, the heat."¹ – Sudjana Kerton

As a nationalistic Indonesian artist, Kerton took an active role in the country’s revolution era in the 1940s and painted pivotal historical events.  After the revolution, Kerton embarked on a journey to Europe and America in the 50s.  He eventually settled and started a family in New York City after completing studies at the Arts Students League.  During his twenty odd years in America, he was deeply inspired by Abstract Expressionism and Cubism, as they gave him new perspectives on art-making. 

The present painting, Mimpi UFO, is an extremely special creation in Kerton’s oeuvre as he rarely depicted non-Indonesian subjects. During the 1960s in America, extraterrestrial life was a popular topic that completely grappled Kerton. And the fact that his museum in Indonesia is built in the shape of a UFO highlights his fascination. 

What is striking about this painting is the way Kerton portrayed the extra-terrestrial figures.  At a time when the general public did not have access to the perception of outer space and with very fewer futuristic films circulating in culture, Kerton’s depiction of aliens here is truly spectacular and original. The techni-colours emanating from the face arrest the viewers to trance-like state. In addition, an intense orange hue illuminates the scene, adding an eerie quality to the painting.  The non-realistic colours that Kerton employed further emphasize the oddity of aliens landing on Earth. 

Mimpi UFO is a unique painting that exemplifies the artist’s love for the American culture.