ICAD 14: Embracing the Unexpected Through Art, Design, and Innovation

The Indonesian Contemporary Art and Design (ICAD) exhibition made a striking return in its 14th edition, themed "UNEXPECTED," running from October 10 to November 10, 2024, at the vibrant grandkemang Jakarta hotel. This year’s theme encouraged artists and designers to break free from conventional narratives and explore fresh perspectives within sociopolitical, environmental, and cultural contexts. It served as a call to embrace the unpredictable and uncover the unseen, inspiring innovative ideas and groundbreaking creativity. The exhibition brought together a dynamic mix of artistic voices, fostering a dialogue that extended beyond visual aesthetics.

The 14th edition featured an impressive lineup of 74 participants, showcasing their work across seven distinct categories, ranging from Special Appearance Tributes to Open Call submissions. Divided into four thematic zones, the exhibition celebrated the unexpected, with each section offering a unique take on the unspoken or overlooked aspects of contemporary life. The event transcended the boundaries of a traditional art showcase, transforming into an interactive and educational platform. Visitors were treated to a diverse range of daily activities, including performance art, public lectures, and hands-on workshops. These programs aimed to deepen audience engagement and highlight the intersection between creativity, culture, and societal issues.

Among the standout installations was a work by Anggun Priambodo, inspired by his nostalgic memories of childhood. His installation invited viewers to reconnect with the simplicity and wonder of formative years, evoking both personal reflection and collective memory. Another compelling contribution came from Michael Eko, a documentary photographer whose series "Adiu: Forest Is Our Mother" chronicled the struggles of the Punan Adiu tribe in Kalimantan to protect their ancestral forests. This powerful narrative underscored the urgent need for environmental conservation and indigenous rights. The exhibition also embraced sustainability through creative workshops, such as the Babybirds x Toko Kopi Tuku project, which turned waste materials into art. Meanwhile, the collage workshop by A.D. Pirous paid homage to an Indonesian art legend, blending traditional techniques with contemporary sensibilities.

The exhibition’s Special Appearance: Borneo section stood out as a vital exploration of artistic activism on the island. Featuring woven installations and video documentation by Evey Kwong, along with archival series by Michael Eko, this segment highlighted Borneo’s rich cultural identity while addressing its environmental and social challenges. These works captured the region’s complex beauty and resilience, offering a platform for voices often overlooked in mainstream narratives. Through this segment, ICAD not only celebrated Borneo’s artistic contributions but also shed light on the region’s struggles and aspirations.

Community engagement was another cornerstone of ICAD 14. Programs like "Rupa Desain & Speculative Today" tackled critical topics such as disaster mitigation, merging design innovation with practical solutions for pressing global issues. Japanese designer Kensho Miyoshi and Labtek Apung presented groundbreaking ideas aimed at addressing challenges like clean water access, emphasizing the role of design in solving real-world problems. These initiatives demonstrated the exhibition’s commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration across disciplines, reinforcing the importance of creativity in shaping a better future.

The grandkemang Jakarta hotel served as more than just a venue—it became an active participant in the artistic experience. Its vibrant lobby transformed into a living canvas, hosting discussions, performances, and interactive workshops that brought art closer to the public. Programs like ICAD Tours invited schools and local communities to engage with art in new and exciting ways, moving beyond traditional classroom settings. These tours nurtured curiosity and creativity among younger generations, inspiring them to view art as a powerful tool for expression and change.

As ICAD continues to evolve, it remains true to its mission of bridging art and design with other disciplines. By assembling a diverse group of talents and encouraging interdisciplinary dialogue, ICAD 14 reaffirmed its position as a leading platform within Indonesia’s creative ecosystem. The exhibition not only celebrated the richness of Indonesian art and design but also provided a space to address global challenges, fostering an environment of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. Through its bold and thought-provoking approach, ICAD 14 cemented its legacy as a transformative force in the world of contemporary art and design.