Museum le Mayeur is an art museum in Sanur, Bali, Indonesia which showcases art pieces and works of the Belgian artist Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur in his own house. Le Mayeur came to Bali in 1928 and later married a famous Balinese dancer Ni Polok in 1932. He also constructed a dwelling near the ocean where the artist created many of his vivid masterpieces showcasing Balinese folks and their way of life. Following the demise of Le Mayeur in 1958, Ni Polok eventually made their home into a museum where an assortment of Le Mayeur’s paintings and creations, besides Balinese masks and such other artefacts are showcased. Here, one can see the master’s vision of Bali through the eye of Le Mayeur and learn more about his connection with Ni Pollok. This amplifies the visuals of the collection since it’s located at the beachfront with Balinese-style structures.
Best Places To Visit Near Museum Le Mayeur
There are many places near Museum le Mayeur which give you amazing vibes; the atmosphere is so inviting that one could spend hours roaming around these places. In this blog we will be discussing a few of them like the beaches, the wonderful markets and the temples. Let’s look into them:-
1. Pantai Sanur
Image Credit: Rendy Chandradity for wikimedia commons
Pantai Sanur is one of the best known beaches located to the southeastern coast of the island. This is yet another beach with calm water which is surrounded by an offshore reef thus making it ideal for swimming and other related water sports. The beach is sandy and white, which gently descends towards the water; the turquoise sea here is not very deep, which is suitable for kids. In Pantai Sanur, there are many local warungs (stores selling food and beverages) and beach clubs where you can have Indonesian food and snack around palm trees and tropical breeze. During the evenings, there are many stalls selling art and crafts, especially along the beach side walkways.
It is said that the black sand of Pantai Sanur carries a high mineral composition that has health benefits to humans. Some parts of the coastline still preserve the features of a village, although Beach is a tourist destination with bale house architecture. As people who visited Pantai Sanur will find that every morning of sunrise walk, water day, shops and dining can be beautifully fulfilled here.
Distance: approx 1 kilometre in walking distance
Best Time to Visit: For a calm beach experience with breathtaking views of the dawn or sunset, go in the early morning or late afternoon.
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2. Pura Blanjong
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Pura Blanjong is a well-known Hindu temple in the vicinity of the Blanjong village of Sanur Timur, located in the eastern part of Bali-Indonesia. This was constructed in the 10th century, and locals believe that the statue of the giant ‘mythical beast’ within the temple has the power to fulfil wishes. The intricate works on the exteriors of the buildings, mainly of red bricks, show high stair, tall gates and open to sky yards depict the typical Balinese architecture. Pura Blanjong is said to be one of the ‘Sad Kahyangan’ or the ‘six holy places’ which are believed to shield Bali from bad energy.
In the festival seasons, the followers appear with bright costumes to pray and offer flowers, rice and incense to the deity. It is divided into three major temples and several subtemples; all face east towards Mount Agung. The temple compounds are quiet and beautiful, many of the rain trees are old, as well as garden areas that give this historical seaside temple even more enigmatic appeal.
Distance: Approx 2 kilometres.
Best Time to Visit: To see the old inscriptions and the historic Hindu temple during the day.
3. Sindu Market (Pasar Sindu)
Pasar Sindu is a well-known market situated in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia. It is historically significant since it is one of the oldest markets in the city with records showing that it has been in existence for over 200 years. It is a two-storied building of a typical industrial appearance, originally built as a warehouse with a high ceiling. More than thousand market vendors and petty shops operate within very congested areas with a variety of products ranging from apparels, fabrics, and ornaments, handicrafts, souvenirs, electronics, and even foodstuff.
Haggling is anticipated as the typical practice with Pasar Sindu for souvenirs. It is important for instance that the narrow corridors are congested that one has to be keen on personal belongings. As such, a visit to Pasar Sindu although disorganised provides a true and rich culture of the Indonesian markets. In this specific market, you can purchase items that you cannot find in current large malls.
Distance: approx 1.5 kilometres.
Best Time to Visit: in the morning to taste fresh Balinese products and take in the lively ambiance of the neighbourhood market.
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4. Mertasari Beach
Image Credit: Johannnindito Adisuryo for wikimedia commons
Mertasari beach is the least known beach as it is situated in the southeastern part of Bali Island, Indonesia. To be more specific, it is not like the crowded beach of Kuta or Seminyak and there are not many tourists that visit Mertasari Beach. Its sand is bright and white, and the sea water is clean with blue and green tinges to it. There is ample space and shade under the tall palm trees. Some of the interesting items that can be seen are the colourfully painted local fishermen’s boats that are parked along the beach. The beach is in Mertasari Village and the people living there respect and maintain their tradition and culture.
Tourists are able to observe the locals in the process of preparing salted fish for consumption and later observe some females in the act of basket weaving from the bamboo produce. There are more humble warungs offering local Balinese cuisine available at the back of the beach. Being not as popular as other beaches but with its calm, stunning nature and a chance to see a genuine Balinese lifestyle, Mertasari Beach is a perfect place to enjoy time away from the tourist rush.
Distance: Approximately 3 kilometres.
Best Time to Visit: Early in the day for a stroll along the serene beach, or late in the day for swimming and watching the sun set.
5. Serangan Island
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Serangan Island is one of the small islands situated just at the southern part of Denpasar city, in the island of Bali, Indonesia. It occupies an area of approximately 1 square kilometre and is located off the coast of Bali peninsula through a shallow channel. Some years ago the island was inhabited, but due to some reasons the inhabitants had to leave since most of the island started sinking in the sea. Currently, Serangan island is famous for the beaches and the coral gardens thus tourists enjoy water activities such as snorkelling, diving and so on. Small boats constantly transport tourists through the strait to discover Serangan’s coastline and this small fishing community.
There are plans to conserve the natural resources of the island for the different species of sea turtles, manta rays, and the beautiful coral reefs. There are also prospects to transform Serangan into an Eco Tourism Centre while maintaining the natural Serangan atmosphere and Balinese culture.
Distance: Approx 8 kilometres.
Best Time to Visit: During the day for water sports like diving and snorkelling
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6. Sakenan Temple
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The Sakenan Temple is one of the famous temples of Bali, Indonesia which attracts a high number of tourists on the southeastern coast of Bali, near to Serangan Island. Locally known as ‘Igbo Ezenagburugwu,’ it can only be accessed by wading through a dense mangrove forest. It is also famous for the site of the Balinese Hindu cremation ceremony of a procession of the Balinese in which they free turtles into the sea. Every year thousands of baby turtles are released here with an expectation that they will grow into mature turtles without being caught by predators.
According to the culture, the temple is said to protect these turtles from any form of harm up to the time they reproduce.
In Sakenan, tourists are able to witness present day villagers in the act of offering prayers and blessings while in case of your timing you get to watch the turtle release ceremonies. The natural scenery with the prospects on the lively fishing vessels anchored in the fishing harbour give this fascinating seaside temple the worthiness for a visit.
Distance: Approx 10 kilometres.
Best Time to Visit: For a genuine cultural experience, at temple festivals or rituals.
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Thus, located in Bali’s scenic Sanur district, this museum honours Balinese culture and preserves the colourful paintings of Belgian artists. Plan a trip to Bali and visit Museum le Mayeur, which is famous for its magnificent artwork and cultural legacy against the backdrop of a breathtaking beachfront setting awaits visitors at Museum le Mayeur.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Museum Le Mayeur
What kind of exhibits does Museum le Mayeur offer?
Le Mayeur's paintings are housed in a varied collection at the museum, displaying his distinct style and perspective of Balinese culture. His colourful paintings, which frequently depict landscapes, daily situations, and Balinese dancers, are on display for visitors to enjoy.
Does the museum host any special occasions or exhibitions?
On various occasions, with the Le Mayeur Museum Timings it presents unique exhibitions, activities, and live performances . Visitors are urged to visit the museum's website or social media pages for information on upcoming events.
How much time is enough to spend at the Museum le Mayeur?
A normal visit lasts between one and one and a half hours, giving plenty of time to take your time and slowly peruse the museum's collection and learn about the Le Mayeur Museum History.
Are tours available with guides?
Yes, individuals who want to know more about Le Mayeur's life and creative processes can take advantage of guided tours. The informed guides share their observations about the paintings and the relationship between the artist and Bali.
Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur: who was he?
Belgian painter Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur de Merprès gained notoriety for his impressionistic works, especially for his portrayals of Balinese landscapes and daily life. He spent the majority of his life in Bali, where he worked at the Museum in Denpasar.
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