Henk Ngantung, Gouache on paper, Undated

Gouache on paper
23 x 31 cm (visible), 67 × 65.5 × 5 cm (framed)
Condition: Very good

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Henk Ngantung (Indonesian, 1921–1991) was a self-taught painter and cultural figure known for his depictions of Indonesian society, everyday life, and national identity. Born in Manado, North Sulawesi, he developed his artistic practice independently and became involved in the Indonesian modern art movement, co-founding the Gelanggang (Arena) artists’ movement alongside writers and intellectuals such as Chairil Anwar and Asrul Sani. His works often reflected his engagement with social themes, human figures, and the changing cultural landscape of post-independence Indonesia. 

Alongside his artistic career, Ngantung played a significant role in public life, serving as Vice Governor and briefly as Governor of Jakarta between 1964 and 1965. He was closely associated with President Sukarno’s vision of developing Jakarta as a cultural centre and contributed designs for important national symbols and public projects. Despite facing political difficulties later in life, he continued painting and remains recognised as an important figure in the history of Indonesian modern art.

(Photographed in July 2026)

Gouache on paper
23 x 31 cm (visible), 67 × 65.5 × 5 cm (framed)
Condition: Very good

-

Henk Ngantung (Indonesian, 1921–1991) was a self-taught painter and cultural figure known for his depictions of Indonesian society, everyday life, and national identity. Born in Manado, North Sulawesi, he developed his artistic practice independently and became involved in the Indonesian modern art movement, co-founding the Gelanggang (Arena) artists’ movement alongside writers and intellectuals such as Chairil Anwar and Asrul Sani. His works often reflected his engagement with social themes, human figures, and the changing cultural landscape of post-independence Indonesia. 

Alongside his artistic career, Ngantung played a significant role in public life, serving as Vice Governor and briefly as Governor of Jakarta between 1964 and 1965. He was closely associated with President Sukarno’s vision of developing Jakarta as a cultural centre and contributed designs for important national symbols and public projects. Despite facing political difficulties later in life, he continued painting and remains recognised as an important figure in the history of Indonesian modern art.

(Photographed in July 2026)

Artwork located in: Singapore