The Indiana University Eskenazi Museum of Art has opened “Mulyana: Vital Ecosystems,” an immersive exhibition by Indonesian artist Mulyana. The installation features a vibrant underwater world constructed from hand-knitted crochet, felt, and repurposed plastic waste, including takeout bags collected during the pandemic. Central to the display is the artist’s signature character, "Mogus," an octopus-like creature that serves as a symbol of empathy and environmental stewardship.
This exhibition is significant for its fusion of traditional Indonesian craft with urgent contemporary discourse on climate change and marine biodiversity. By utilizing recycled materials to depict coral bleaching and pollution, Mulyana bridges the gap between local craftsmanship and global ecological crises. The show’s interactive elements and tactile nature aim to engage a broad audience in conversations about sustainability, social isolation, and the interconnectedness of human activity and the natural world.