Collection Highlights:
Ogoh - Ogoh

Bhoma Narakasura - SAKA Museum in Bali

Bhoma Narakasura, the Child of Divine Challenge

In the heart of Singapadu, Gianyar, a captivating tale of tradition and innovation unfolds through the skilled hands of a father-son duo: I Made Sugiantara and I Wayan Ponco Maryuda. Their artistic heritage stretches back to Wayan Pugeg, Ponco's grandfather, a master sculptor and the pioneer of ogoh-ogoh creation in their region. The family's l...

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Ngewacak Rare - SAKA Museum in Bali

Ngewacak Rare - Guardians of the Ethereal

Ida Bagus Nyoman Surya Wigenam, affectionately known as Gusman Surya, hails from Banjar Kelodan Tampaksiring, Gianyar, and is synonymous with ogoh-ogoh artistry. Self-taught, his artistic journey began in his youth, influenced by fellow craftsmen from Tampaksiring, including his cousin Gus Kembar, brother Gus Kadek, and senior artists like Gus C...

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The Fury of Ravana and Wilmana - SAKA Museum in Bali

The Fury of Ravana and Wilmana

In the fervent creative industry of Bali, where tradition and innovation intertwine, two master artists - Komang Gede Sentana Putra and Ida Bagus Nyoman Surya Wigenam fuse their genius into collaborative marvel. The pinnacle of their collaboration stands tall at the Saka Museum, the tallest ogoh-ogoh in Bali. This one and only gigantic artwork...

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The Demise of the Ogre-King Mahesasura - SAKA Museum in Bali

The Demise of the Ogre-King Mahesasura

Hailing from Singaraja, Wayan Buda Mahardika, known as Buda, is a renowned ogoh-ogoh artist. His journey from a painter to a tapel ogoh-ogoh craftsman marked a significant transformation. Collaborations with Ritual Art and Sigrut Artwork yielded awards like second place in the 2019 Mini Ogoh-Ogoh competition. His creative partner, Putu Willy Sur...

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The Goddess Sarasvati - SAKA Museum in Bali

The Goddess Sarasvati

In Jimbaran's urban expanse, I Wayan Arif Masriadi excels in ogoh-ogoh artistry, nurturing his talent from an early age. What began as sketches in a humble sketchbook transformed into a passion, leading him to create grand spectacles for his community. He believes that art, rich in emotion, defies simple quantification. For him, art holds immeas...

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The Mighty Heroine Srikandi - SAKA Museum in Bali

The Mighty Heroine Srikandi

A soulful and accomplished dancer, I Putu Candra Pradhita, never allowed his passion for the dance to overshadow his love for the art of ogoh-ogoh. Instead, he blended the two. The nuances of dance and dramaturgy gracefully permeate his ogoh-ogoh creations. This ogoh-ogoh depicts Srikandi, an important transgender male character in the Mahabhar...

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Other Collections

Cetra Masa (The Ninth Month) - SAKA Museum in Bali

Cetra Masa (The Ninth Month)

Cetra Masa, or Sasih Kasanga (the ninth month), marks a time of spiritual cleansing and renewal, culminating in Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence. Falling the day after Tilem Sasih Kasanga (the new moon of the ninth month), Nyepi is a moment of solemn reflection. The Cetra Masa relief illustrates that silence (kasunyatan) is not emptiness but a..

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Woven effigies of The Goddess of rice, Dewi Sri - SAKA Museum in Bali

Woven effigies of The Goddess of rice, Dewi Sri

Woven from the dried leaves of the pandan, a common and very useful plant found throughout the Indonesian Archipelago, these charming effigies, known as Cili, are associated with the cult of Dewi Sri. This beloved goddess of rice is closely related to Dewi Pertiwi, the goddess of the earth. Cili are easily recognizable by the fan-like shape of ...

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Temple Shrine (Jampana) with God Images (Pratima) - SAKA Museum in Bali

Temple Shrine (Jampana) with God Images (Pratima)

God house (jampana), with pair of deity images (pratima) was placed in a temple shrine and displayed during religious processions, such as associated with odalan and melasti ceremonies. The structure forms part of a long history, dating back to the early Central Javanese era (c.8th – 10th century), where miniature architectural models were creat...

More Info
Ogoh-ogoh: Walking Among Giants - SAKA Museum in Bali

Ogoh-ogoh: Walking Among Giants

Ogoh-ogoh are imposing figures, crafted from materials like papier-mâché, bamboo, rattan, and wood. These creations portray intimidating entities, including demons, monsters, ogres, mythical beasts, deities, and supernatural beings. The word ‘ogoh’ means to sway or shake. As they move, ogoh-ogoh become captivating spectacle, symbolizing bhuta-...

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SAKA Auditorium - SAKA Museum in Bali

SAKA Auditorium

To further enrich your appreciation of Balinese culture, we invite you to watch our series of short films, including the currently premiering film about Nyepi, in our state-of-the-art auditorium. Available in multiple languages, this is an experience not to be missed. Experience the vivid contrasts of the Melasti, Pengerupukan, and the Day of Si...

More Info
Lontar: The Art of Time-Honored Wisdom - SAKA Museum in Bali

Lontar: The Art of Time-Honored Wisdom

Lontar manuscripts of Bali, ancient texts inscribed on palm leaves, are fundamental to the preservation of Balinese arts and culture. Historically used not only for communication and as daily journals, these lontars primarily functioned as repositories of sacred knowledge. Etched with a special iron stylus (pengrupak), they encompass a broad spe...

More Info
Tika: The Art of Balinese Timekeeping - SAKA Museum in Bali

Tika: The Art of Balinese Timekeeping

Tika, Bali's traditional calendar, is designed using the precise calculations of wariga, a method for determining auspicious and inauspicious days for initiating tasks. Stemming from the word 'kutika', meaning 'to mark', the Tika calendar is artistically represented through symbols on various media. It is meticulously crafted on rectangular wood...

More Info
SAKA Knowledge Center - SAKA Museum in Bali

SAKA Knowledge Center

The Knowledge Center hosts specially curated collections depicting interaction between traditional and contemporary Balinese life in extraordinary detail. With more than 490 literary works, visitors can explore the unique tapestry of Balinese culture's past and present on every page. Discover key events that have shaped Bali as it is today on ou...

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The Gamelan Angklung of Manggis - SAKA Museum in Bali

The Gamelan Angklung of Manggis

For the Balinese, the gamelan is more than just a musical ensemble; it is a vital part of the community's spiritual and social expression. Participating in the gamelan is a communal activity that strengthens social ties and deepens religious devotion. Our collection features a Gamelan Angklung set crafted in 1953 by the late Made Tomblos of Mang...

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Togog Paras: Stone Statues Collection - SAKA Museum in Bali

Togog Paras: Stone Statues Collection

As you explore the first floor, discover an impressive collection of paired stone statues, spanning from the 17th to the 20th centuries. Each set—from mystical guardians to celestial beings—captures Bali's rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.
These statues serve not only to ward off evil spirits and ensure the sanctity of sacred spac...

More Info
Palelintangan: Balinese Astrology - SAKA Museum in Bali

Palelintangan: Balinese Astrology

The Palelintangan, a Balinese star calendar, provides interpretations of one's star sign (lintang), helping individuals understand their personal traits. It integrates the seven-day week (Saptawara) with the five-day week (Pancawara), aligning with one's birth date. The calendar is rich with culturally significant symbols: the top row displays t...

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Sasi Wimba Haneng Gata Poem - SAKA Museum in Bali

Sasi Wimba Haneng Gata Poem

The poem Sasi Wimba Haneng Gata, paired with the shimmering sounds of Wayan Gde Yudane’s composition Journey, beautifully illustrates how Bali values calm and peace as essential for gaining insight and clarity. It conveys that only in tranquil waters can the true reflection of the moon be seen, inviting you to embrace a slower, more contemplativ...

More Info

The Mighty Heroine Srikandi

A soulful and accomplished dancer, I Putu Candra Pradhita, never allowed his passion for the dance to overshadow his love for the art of ogoh-ogoh. Instead, he blended the two. The nuances of dance and dramaturgy gracefully permeate his ogoh-ogoh creations. This ogoh-ogoh depicts Srikandi, an important transgender male character in the Mahabhata epic. Srikandi was born as Princess Amba, but she was rejected by three different suitors, which led her to curse them all. After her death, Amba was reborn as Srikandi, a skilled warrior who vowed to avenge herself.

At the Kurukshetra War, Srikandi faced Bhishma, one of the greatest warriors of his time. Bhishma was unable to attack Srikandi because he had taken a vow not to harm women. Srikandi used this to her advantage and defeated Bhishma, ending his life.

Srikandi's story is a reminder that all people, regardless of gender, are capable of great things. It is also a reminder that we should never judge someone based on their appearance or identity.

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Ngewacak Rare - Guardians of the Ethereal

Ida Bagus Nyoman Surya Wigenam, affectionately known as Gusman Surya, hails from Banjar Kelodan Tampaksiring, Gianyar, and is synonymous with ogoh-ogoh artistry. Self-taught, his artistic journey began in his youth, influenced by fellow craftsmen from Tampaksiring, including his cousin Gus Kembar, brother Gus Kadek, and senior artists like Gus Ceng. Gusman's ambition extends beyond personal acclaim; he aims to nurture and guide the youth in his community, ensuring the continuity of the art form he loves. He deeply values the emotional investment and 'taksu’ , a divine spirit, in creating ogoh-ogoh, recognizing their irreplaceable role in preserving Balinese culture. 

In Bali, the birth of a child combines ceremony and spiritual care, deeply rooted in the island's traditions. The Ngewacak Raré ritual, stemming from Tenung Pewacakan Raré, protects young children until they undergo their traditional rites of passage. Until then, they are under the watchful eye of Sanghyang Kumara, the guardian of purity. Balinese folklore introduces unseen siblings, such as Babu Jenggi and Babu Pangguh, who accompany newborns on their journey. To maintain harmony, offerings to these spiritual siblings are vital. Ngewacak Raré exemplifies the Balinese commitment to balance and nurturing both the seen and unseen aspects of life, ensuring tranquility.

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The Demise of the Ogre-King Mahesasura

Hailing from Singaraja, Wayan Buda Mahardika, known as Buda, is a renowned ogoh-ogoh artist. His journey from a painter to a tapel ogoh-ogoh craftsman marked a significant transformation. Collaborations with Ritual Art and Sigrut Artwork yielded awards like second place in the 2019 Mini Ogoh-Ogoh competition. His creative partner, Putu Willy Suryana, or Pepi, brings their ideas to life through digital art. Together, they've earned numerous accolades and focus on eco-friendly materials.

Switching gears, the epic Mahesasura Pralaya, set in the Kishkindha Kanda of the Ramayana, narrates a clash between Subali and the ogre-king Mahesasura. It's a tale of divine intervention, misunderstanding, and eventual forgiveness, with Subali receiving the gift of immortality from Bhatara Guru.

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The Goddess Sarasvati

In Jimbaran's urban expanse, I Wayan Arif Masriadi excels in ogoh-ogoh artistry, nurturing his talent from an early age. What began as sketches in a humble sketchbook transformed into a passion, leading him to create grand spectacles for his community. He believes that art, rich in emotion, defies simple quantification. For him, art holds immeasurable value, with the ability to captivate those unfamiliar with its intricacies. Masriadi emphasizes the importance of respecting art's ethical standards, regardless of individual viewpoints.

Within Hindu cosmology, the feminine complements the masculine divine, represented by the Tridevi: Sarasvati, Lakshmi, and Parvati. Sarasvati symbolizes wisdom, knowledge, and creativity, bridging celestial wisdom with earthly beauty, offering a voice to ideas in the cosmic expanse.

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Bhoma Narakasura, the Child of Divine Challenge

In the heart of Singapadu, Gianyar, a captivating tale of tradition and innovation unfolds through the skilled hands of a father-son duo: I Made Sugiantara and I Wayan Ponco Maryuda. Their artistic heritage stretches back to Wayan Pugeg, Ponco's grandfather, a master sculptor and the pioneer of ogoh-ogoh creation in their region. The family's legacy encompasses a wide range of sculptures, from traditional to modern surrealist works, including their unique "robotic ogoh-ogoh" pieces. Their collaboration isn't just a tribute to the past; it's a lively dance between tradition and modernity, a generational conversation where the wisdom of the old gently guides the exuberance of the new.

The ogoh-ogoh story is about Vishnu, Brahma, and Sang Boma. Sang Boma is the central figure of the ogoh-ogoh, he is often called the "Child of the Earth" because he was born from the union of Vishnu and the earth goddess. Sang Boma is a powerful and destructive figure. He is said to be the embodiment of Shiva's anger. Sang Boma is often depicted as a giant with a fiery temper. He is also said to have the ability to control the forces of nature. The story of Sang Boma is a reminder that even the gods can be destructive. It is also a reminder that the balance between creation and destruction is essential to the universe.

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The Fury of Ravana and Wilmana

In the fervent creative industry of Bali, where tradition and innovation intertwine, two master artists - Komang Gede Sentana Putra and Ida Bagus Nyoman Surya Wigenam fuse their genius into collaborative marvel. The pinnacle of their collaboration stands tall at the Saka Museum, the tallest ogoh-ogoh in Bali. This one and only gigantic artwork is not just the epitome of their shared artistic vision but also a symbol of their mutual respect, understanding, and willingness to transcend personal boundaries for the sake of art, culture, and collective zest.

The ogoh-ogoh tells the story of King Ravana , the main antagonist in the Hindu epic Ramayana. He is a powerful and intelligent demon king who is known for his powerful voice and his devotion to Lord Shiva. Ravana's flying chariot, Wilmana, is a powerful weapon that he uses in his battle against Prince Rama. Despite King Ravana's power and resources, he is ultimately defeated by Prince Rama, who represents good and righteousness. The tale is a reminder that good will always triumph over evil, even in the darkest of times.

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Cetra Masa (The Ninth Month) - SAKA Museum in Bali

Cetra Masa (The Ninth Month)

Relief: brass, hand-carved

H. 620 cm x W. 500 cm

Jantra: wood, canvas

H. 91 cm x W. 107 cm x D. 40 cm

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Cetra Masa, or Sasih Kasanga (the ninth month), marks a time of spiritual cleansing and renewal, culminating in Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence. Falling the day after Tilem Sasih Kasanga (the new moon of the ninth month), Nyepi is a moment of solemn reflection.

The Cetra Masa relief illustrates that silence (kasunyatan) is not emptiness but a state of clarity (apatitis) that invites contemplation. It also reflects Baliʼs diverse Nyepi traditions and Catur Brata Penyepian, the four self-imposed restraints observed during this sacred day.

This zone features a hands-on Jantra, inviting visitors to interact with the symbolic spinning wheel of time. Representing Ratih, the Moon Goddess, the Jantra embodies the eternal flow of life, seasons, and cosmic rhythms. This piece incorporates Palelindon—a timekeeping system mapping natural phenomena, illnesses, social changes, and global omens, often interpreted through earthquake patterns and lunar phases.

The Palelindon painting, originally created by the late Nyoman Mandra, has been reinterpreted by his daughter, Ni Wayan Sri Wedari, successor of Sanggar Wasundari in Banjar Sangging, Kamasan. Like Dewi Ratih, Balinese women have long shaped the islandʼs arts, ensuring cultural wisdom endures. Their artistry, like the Jantra, keeps Balinese heritage in constant motion—an unbroken cycle of preservation and renewal.

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Woven effigies of The Goddess of rice, Dewi Sri - SAKA Museum in Bali

Woven effigies of The Goddess of rice, Dewi Sri

1900-1950

Buleleng, north Bali

pandan leaf, cotton, twine

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MUSEUM SAKA 2024.10.17

Woven from the dried leaves of the pandan, a common and very useful plant found throughout the Indonesian Archipelago, these charming effigies, known as Cili, are associated with the cult of Dewi Sri.  This beloved goddess of rice is closely related to Dewi Pertiwi, the goddess of the earth. Cili are easily recognizable by the fan-like shape of their crowned heads. This form and the cult date back to at least the Bronze Age and honour Dewi Sri as the goddess who is said to have sacrificed herself in order to give rice, the staff of life, to humans. 

Such figures may have once been used throughout Bali and East Java. After being woven, they are blessed and empowered in a ceremony. They would then be placed in the eaves of rice barns as spiritual protection against calamity and malevolent magic. The practice of weaving cili has dwindled since the first half of the twentieth century making this set exceedingly rare.

Temple Shrine (Jampana) with God Images (Pratima) - SAKA Museum in Bali

Temple Shrine (Jampana) with God Images (Pratima)

1840-1920

South Bali

wood, polychrome, cinnabar, gold leaf, mirror

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MUSEUM SAKA 2024.10.4

God house (jampana), with pair of deity images (pratima) was placed in a temple shrine and displayed during religious processions, such as associated with odalan and melasti ceremonies. The structure forms part of a long history, dating back to the early Central Javanese era (c.8th – 10th century), where miniature architectural models were created for Hindu-Buddhist religious purposes. Balinese god houses display a remarkable range of forms while maintaining overall consistency as miniature architectural replicas of the dwelling places of deities. This individual example is unique due to the following distinct features:

A pair of miniature male and female deities accompany this acquisition and possibly were originally specifically made for this jampana. The features are finely carved in wood covered in gold leaf. The figures wear lavish full-length waist garments and various accessories, including crowns, ear ornaments and jewellery. The male is slightly taller than his female companion.

As is often the case with pratima deity images, they display no unique attributes in their iconography enabling them to be individually identified.

The roof of this god house is elaborately constructed from imported Chinese kepeng coins bound together to create the appearance of roof tiles. The coins are valued for their talismanic powers and auspicious symbolism, making them an appropriate, if very unusual, addition to the god house. The two side and back panels of the god house feature large circular unpainted recesses which were intended for round mirrors that have since been lost. Reflective mirrors have particular significance throughout the Indonesian archipelago, such as the use of mirrors for eyes in Dayak hudoq masks, as they are often associated with apotropaic powers and intermediary medium between the seen and unseen worlds.

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Ogoh-ogoh: Walking Among Giants - SAKA Museum in Bali

Ogoh-ogoh: Walking Among Giants

Ogoh-ogoh are imposing figures, crafted from materials like papier-mâché, bamboo, rattan, and wood. These creations portray intimidating entities, including demons, monsters, ogres, mythical beasts, deities, and supernatural beings.
 
The word ‘ogoh’ means to sway or shake. As they move, ogoh-ogoh become captivating spectacle, symbolizing bhuta-kala, a formidable force from the underworld. Their parade, which occurs on Pengerupukan Day, the eve of Nyepi, serves a significant purpose of spiritual cleansing, aimed at exorcising evil spirits and purging negative energies from the community.

During the 1980s, the youthful expression of ogoh-ogoh transformed into street festivals throughout Bali, significantly shaping the evolution of their form and function. Today, they are not just static sculptures but interactive art pieces that can rotate, light up, emit smoke, and produce sounds, creating a captivating, multi-sensory experience for spectators.

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Fun Fact

Komang Gede Sentana Putra (Kedux) and Ida Bagus Nyoman Surya Wigenam (Gusman Surya) are the creators behind our iconic Amuk Rahwana Lan Wilmana (The Fury of Ravana and Wilmana), the grandest ogoh-ogoh in Bali, celebrated for its imposing presence.

The 1910s photograph by renowned German doctor and photographer Gregor Krause captures one of the earliest ogoh-ogoh, depicted as dawang-dawang (guardians) used in royal cremation ceremonies, providing a historical perspective on Balinese cultural rituals.

In local banjars or hamlets, crafting an ogoh-ogoh is a community effort, engaging 50–75 youths over about one month, each contributing in various roles under the guidance of a master artist, showcasing the communal spirit and cultural richness of Bali.

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SAKA Auditorium - SAKA Museum in Bali

SAKA Auditorium

To further enrich your appreciation of Balinese culture, we invite you to watch our series of short films, including the currently premiering film about Nyepi, in our state-of-the-art auditorium. Available in multiple languages, this is an experience not to be missed.

Experience the vivid contrasts of the Melasti, Pengerupukan, and the Day of Silence itself, each portrayed in stunning detail. Discover how the mighty ogoh-ogoh integrate into these rituals and learn about the creation process of these giant effigies from two master designers who have crafted three ogoh-ogoh for our museum.

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Lontar: The Art of Time-Honored Wisdom - SAKA Museum in Bali

Lontar: The Art of Time-Honored Wisdom

Lontar manuscripts of Bali, ancient texts inscribed on palm leaves, are fundamental to the preservation of Balinese arts and culture. Historically used not only for communication and as daily journals, these lontars primarily functioned as repositories of sacred knowledge.

Etched with a special iron stylus (pengrupak), they encompass a broad spectrum of wisdom, including spiritual teachings, religious doctrines, historical narratives, medicinal practices, and literary compositions. Many lontars also feature exquisite calligraphy and are housed in ornately decorated boxes that protect and enhance their artistic value.

Tika: The Art of Balinese Timekeeping - SAKA Museum in Bali

Tika: The Art of Balinese Timekeeping

Tika, Bali's traditional calendar, is designed using the precise calculations of wariga, a method for determining auspicious and inauspicious days for initiating tasks.

Stemming from the word 'kutika', meaning 'to mark', the Tika calendar is artistically represented through symbols on various media.

It is meticulously crafted on rectangular wooden boards, paper, and sometimes even fabric, each bearing the unique mathematical intricacies of Balinese timekeeping.

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SAKA Knowledge Center - SAKA Museum in Bali

SAKA Knowledge Center

The Knowledge Center hosts specially curated collections depicting interaction between traditional and contemporary Balinese life in extraordinary detail. With more than 490 literary works, visitors can explore the unique tapestry of Balinese culture's past and present on every page.

Discover key events that have shaped Bali as it is today on our Threads of Bali board. This display intertwines three important aspects: spiritual depth, artistic richness, and multicultural exchange. It provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding today's Balinese identity, which is deeply rooted in tradition yet dynamically modern.

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The Gamelan Angklung of Manggis - SAKA Museum in Bali

The Gamelan Angklung of Manggis

For the Balinese, the gamelan is more than just a musical ensemble; it is a vital part of the community's spiritual and social expression. Participating in the gamelan is a communal activity that strengthens social ties and deepens religious devotion.

Our collection features a Gamelan Angklung set crafted in 1953 by the late Made Tomblos of Manggis Karangasem. Recognizing the historical and cultural significance of this ensemble, the museum acquired the full set, facilitated by I Made Sutama, Made Tomblos' grandson. This acquisition ensures the continuation of this cherished legacy

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Togog Paras: Stone Statues Collection - SAKA Museum in Bali

Togog Paras: Stone Statues Collection

As you explore the first floor, discover an impressive collection of paired stone statues, spanning from the 17th to the 20th centuries.

Each set—from mystical guardians to celestial beings—captures Bali's rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.


These statues serve not only to ward off evil spirits and ensure the sanctity of sacred spaces but are also celebrated for their exceptional artistic craftsmanship, showcasing the marvels of Balinese sculpture along with the rich folklore, legends, and stories they represent.

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Palelintangan: Balinese Astrology - SAKA Museum in Bali

Palelintangan: Balinese Astrology

The Palelintangan, a Balinese star calendar, provides interpretations of one's star sign (lintang), helping individuals understand their personal traits. It integrates the seven-day week (Saptawara) with the five-day week (Pancawara), aligning with one's birth date.

The calendar is rich with culturally significant symbols: the top row displays the governing deity, contrasting with the bottom row, which features demons or animals as spiritual guardians. Columns one to seven represent the days of the week, while rows two to five outline the five-day week from Umanis to Kliwon, capturing 35 unique star signs.

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Sasi Wimba Haneng Gata Poem - SAKA Museum in Bali

Sasi Wimba Haneng Gata Poem

The poem Sasi Wimba Haneng Gata, paired with the shimmering sounds of Wayan Gde Yudane’s composition Journey, beautifully illustrates how Bali values calm and peace as essential for gaining insight and clarity. It conveys that only in tranquil waters can the true reflection of the moon be seen, inviting you to embrace a slower, more contemplative pace as you explore the exhibit.

Let the seamless blend of sound and verse deepen your connection to the Balinese way of life. Feel the soul-soothing power of art as it reshapes your perceptions and stirs your emotions, enhancing your cultural experience.

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