Confronting Shadows: Indonesia’s “Beyond Unsettled Past” Exhibition Reckons with Dutch Colonial Legacy
The enduring impact of Dutch colonialism in Indonesia is the focus of a new exhibition, “Beyond Unsettled Past,” now on display at Erasmus Huis in Jakarta through November 1. The showcase arrives as a powerful attempt to grapple with a history often relegated to textbooks, acknowledging the pain and responsibility that linger for both former colonizers and the colonized.
The Ghosts of History
Colonialism remains a deeply sensitive topic, evoking shame and regret for some, and enduring trauma for others. Despite the passage of time, its effects are far from eradicated. As one official at Erasmus Huis explained, “The legacy of colonialism is not confined to history books. It lives in landscapes, institutions, language, power, identity and memories.”
This sentiment underscores the exhibition’s core mission: to move beyond simple remembrance and actively confront the ongoing consequences of a complex and often brutal past. The exhibition isn’t about assigning blame, but about acknowledging an “unfinished” reckoning, as another source within Erasmus Huis stated. “For some people, it’s a painful one,” they continued. “For others, [it’s] a responsibility. But I think, for all, it’s unfinished.”
From Amsterdam to Jakarta: A Collaborative Vision
The impetus for “Beyond Unsettled Past” stemmed from a visit to “Imprints,” a 2024 exhibition at the Wereldmuseum in Amsterdam. Inspired by the Amsterdam showcase, the director of Erasmus Huis sought to create a similar project, but crucially, from a distinctly Indonesian perspective.
To achieve this, he collaborated with historian and curator Sadiah Boonstra and assistant curator Sukiato Khurniawan. Together, they assembled a collection of works by six Indonesian artists – Arahmaiani, Budi Agung Kuswara, Dita Gambiro, Eldwin Pradipta, Elia Nurvista, and Maharani Mancanagara – each offering a unique reflection on the lasting imprints of colonialism on Indonesian society.
Artistic Reflections on a Troubled Past
The artists featured in “Beyond Unsettled Past” explore the multifaceted ways in which colonialism continues to shape contemporary Indonesia. Their work delves into the “seeds of exploitation” sown during the Dutch era, examining how these seeds have blossomed into present-day realities.
The exhibition promises a nuanced and challenging exploration of a history that continues to resonate, prompting viewers to consider the enduring legacies of power, identity, and memory. It is a testament to the power of art to confront difficult truths and foster a more complete understanding of the past – and its impact on the present.
