Nestled in the cultural epicentre of Ubud, the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) stands as a striking tribute to Indonesia’s flourishing art scene.Established by the esteemed Balinese artist Agung Rai, the museum boasts a vast array of both traditional and modern artworks. ARMA invites you to explore mesmerising Balinese art, with its eclectic collection encompassing vibrant paintings, detailed wood carvings, intricate sculptures, and textiles. The museum’s assortment features pieces from local Balinese masters and international artists who found a home in Bali. Thus, you should consider scheduling a visit to this artistic haven to appreciate the depth of Indonesia’s art culture fully.
History
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The Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) was founded on 13th May 1996 by Balinese art devotee Agung Rai and inaugurated on 9 June 1996. He spent his life protecting and promoting the island’s art and culture, which led to the creation of the ARMA museum. The museum displays a permanent collection of paintings from local, national, and international artists. The collection includes the ARMA Foundation’s collection and works borrowed from Mr. and Mrs. Agung Rai.
It encompasses both traditional and modern art, featuring classical Kamasan painting on tree bark, masterpieces from Batuan artists of the 1930s and 1940s, and unique works by 19th-century Javanese artists Raden Saleh and Syarif Bustaman.
The ARMA museum also showcases essential works by Balinese masters like I Gusti Nyoman Lempad, Ida Bagus Made, Anak Agung Gede Sobrat, and I Gusti Made Deblog. Works by foreign artists who lived and worked in Bali, including Willem Gerard Hofker, Rudolf Bonnet, and Willem Dooijewaard, are also displayed.
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Things to do at Agung Rai Museum of Art
The Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) offers a range of activities and experiences to immerse yourself in Balinese art, culture, and heritage. Some things you can do while visiting ARMA:
Explore Balinese art: Explore yourself in ARMA’s collection of traditional and contemporary Balinese paintings, sculptures, and textiles, and learn about their history and significance.
Stroll Through Beautiful Grounds: Enjoy the serene atmosphere of ARMA’s gardens, which are a unique blend of Balinese and modern architecture. Take advantage of the bordering rice fields.
Attend Performances & Workshops: Take a workshop to learn a Balinese art form, such as woodcarving or painting. The official website has the schedule.
Support Local Artisans: Find unique souvenirs and gifts like woven textiles and batik fabrics at the ARMA gift shop.
Entrance Fee and Timings
The Agung Rai Museum of Art Bali is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. The cost of Agung Rai Museum of Art tickets varies depending on nationality and age. Adult foreigners need to Rp 150,000, while children between 6 and 12 years old pay Rp 50,000. The Agung Rai Museum of art entrance fee for Indonesian citizens is Rp150,000 for adults and Rp50,000 for children.
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Best Time to Visit the Agung Rai Museum of Art
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The Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) is open every day from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, so you can choose a time to visit. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide:
Morning (9:00 am – 12 noon): There are fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, ideal for taking photos without people in the background.
Afternoon (12 noon – 4:00 pm): This area can get crowded, especially during peak season. Still, you might catch traditional dance performances on the museum’s open stage on some specific days (check their schedule for details).
Evening (4:00 pm – 6:00 pm): It’s less crowded again, and depending on the weather, there may be good lighting for photos. You can also attend a Kecak dance performance on new and full moons or a Legong Telek dance every Tuesday, starting at 7:30 pm.
How To Get There?
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To reach the Agung Rai Museum of Art Bali, you can reach the museum in the following ways:
Taxi: The quickest and most convenient way is to take a taxi. You can catch a taxi from Agung Rai Museum of Art to Ubud. The distance is approximately 2.1 Km, and the taxi ride should take around 2 minutes.
Walking: If you prefer a stroll, you can walk from Agung Rai Museum of Art to Ubud. The walking distance is about 1.1 Km and should take approximately 13 minutes.
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Things to do Near Agung Rai Museum of Art
Near the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA), there are plenty of places to visit. Some of the most popular ones include:
1. Bali Zoo
Bali Zoo is a sanctuary for nature lovers. It houses a diverse collection of over 500 unique and exotic animals amidst verdant tropical surroundings. The zoo provides various engaging experiences, from sharing a meal with jungle creatures to embarking on elephant safaris. It offers more than passive observation; it encourages active interaction with animals in their natural habitats. The estimated journey time to Bali Zoo is around 24 minutes.
2. Ayung River Rafting
Ayung River Rafting is an exhilarating experience in Kuta in Bali. This heart-racing activity unfolds on Bali’s longest river, the Ayung River. The site is roughly a 34-minute drive from Bali’s main tourist hubs. The river’s calm flow makes it a year-round destination for rafting. The rafting path spans 10 Km and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to steer. It offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Bali’s natural splendour, including its verdant rainforests, diverse wildlife, and exotic flora.
3. Penida Island
Penida Island, also known as Nusa Penida, is a beautiful island in the Klungkung Regency of Bali, Indonesia. It’s approximately 25 Km away from Bali and can be reached by a speedboat in around 55 minutes. The island is famous for its stunning landscapes, unique rock formations, and crystal-clear blue waters. It offers numerous spots for photography, hiking, and snorkelling, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Tips to Keep in Mind Travelling
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When travelling to the ARMA, keep these tips in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
Plan Your Visit: ARMA is open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Consider a guided tour: The ARMA museum offers guided tours in multiple languages, a great way to learn more about the collection and Balinese art.
Dress Comfortably: Ubud can get hot and humid, so dress comfortably and bring sunscreen and a hat.
Stay hydrated: Bring a water bottle, as you’ll walk around often. ARMA also has a cafe where you can purchase refreshments.
Take your time: ARMA’s a lot to see, so take your time and savour the art.
Respect the art: Don’t touch the artwork, and avoid using flash photography.
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The Agung Rai Museum of Art is a haven that exhibits the profoundness of Balinese art. It’s a destination that enthusiasts of art and culture should not miss. The museum’s architecture is a sight to behold, and its collections are meticulously curated. Upon your visit, you’ll find yourself amidst a riot of colours, intricate artwork, and meaningful narratives displayed on the museum’s walls. The allure of Balinese art will etch a memorable mark on you. So, it’s time to plan your trip to Ubud and delve into the richness of Indonesia’s artistic heritage.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Agung Rai Museum of Art
Is there any place for accommodation near the Agung Rai Museum?
Yes, the Alaya Resort Ubud and Bhuwana Ubud Hotel are two accommodations near the Agung Rai Museum of Art in Ubud.
Does ARMA offer guided tours for visitors?
Yes, ARMA provides guided tours led by knowledgeable staff who offer insights into the artworks, history, and cultural significance of the museum's collection.
Are there facilities such as cafes or gift shops at ARMA?
Yes, ARMA has facilities, including a cafe serving refreshments and local cuisine and a gift shop offering art-related souvenirs and handicrafts.
What is the Agung Rai Museum of Art known for?
ARMA is renowned for its extensive collection of Balinese art, including traditional and contemporary paintings, sculptures, and cultural artefacts.
Are there any special exhibitions held at ARMA?
Yes, ARMA hosts rotating exhibitions featuring local and international artists, offering visitors diverse artistic experiences throughout the year.
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