Adi Gunawan

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About the artwork

Adi Gunawan’s "Dorong Gajah," or "Push The Elephant," presents a delightful bronze sculpture that speaks to themes of perseverance and the power of seemingly small efforts. In this charming scene, a signature rounded figure of Gunawan's design earnestly attempts to push a significantly larger elephant. The smooth, polished surfaces of both figures highlight the artist's characteristic style, imbuing the moment with a sense of playful determination. This work resonates with the spirit of overcoming challenges, a sentiment often valued in Singapore's dynamic environment. It suggests that even when faced with seemingly insurmountable tasks, consistent effort and unwavering spirit can lead to progress. Gunawan’s endearing portrayal transforms a potentially arduous act into a heartwarming testament to the strength found in persistent endeavor and the possibility of achieving the unexpected.

About the artist

Born in Yogyakarta in 1974, Adi Gunawan received his education at the Institut Seni Indonesia. He is a prominent Indonesian sculptor known for his distinctive and often playful and satirical bronze sculptures. In his symbolic sculptures, Adi invokes exploration of themes related to human behavior, social issues, and cultural traditions. He uses his cultural positioning as a tool to visualize motions, gestures, characters and expressions of various subjects that he sculpts. He often incorporates elements of Indonesian folklore and everyday life, giving his pieces a rich cultural context. Growing up in an Agrarian society, he depicts a lot of animals in his work. The symbiotic and mystical relationship between animals and humans is well expressed in his artworks.