Art is the product of an individual’s ideas and thoughts, expressed through strokes, melodies, or performances. For a long time, artists have conveyed reflections on social, economic, and political issues through their works.
For example, figures such as Iwan Fals, Pramoedya Ananta Toer, and R. A. Kartini created art that often carried narratives of critique and even anarchic messages regarding the state of society and politics.
“They don’t present it explicitly. Their works are formulated in metaphorical forms, making them more engaging,” said Yogyakarta-based artist Hernandes Saranela in a discussion titled “The Limits of Creativity: Censorship and Artistic Freedom of Expression in Indonesia” on Friday (Mar. 21).
He highlighted the unique ways each artist delivers their ideas. The critical use of art provides a broad space for anyone wishing to express their opinions, as art can take any form.
“This is why censorship in art is often associated with restrictions on freedom of expression itself,” he stated.
However, according to Saranela, censorship in art is not necessarily a threat. It can serve as a tool to sharpen ideas in abstract art. The metaphors presented can generate different perceptions and responses from audiences, allowing for intellectual freedom in interpreting artistic expressions.
Saranela further explained that, ideally, artists should be aware of the impact of their works. Rather than being a form of repression against freedom, this awareness ensures that the substance of their message is conveyed without facing suppression. This requires creative thinking from artists.
Irham Nur Anshari, a lecturer in Communication Science at UGM, pointed out that censorship mechanisms have shifted in the digital era. One of these changes is the emergence of techno-surveillance, the practice of monitoring public content through digital technology.
Social media platforms now have various features to filter sensitive content. For example, Instagram enforces policies against publishing violence, self-harm, racial and religious criticisms, and other sensitive community issues. Similarly, X includes content warnings for certain sensitive publications.
Anshari explained that censorship today is carried out not only vertically by government institutions but also horizontally by community groups.
“These vertical and horizontal censorship mechanisms can sometimes align, but at other times, they may contradict each other,” he said.
The digital world has strengthened public independence in shaping narratives and algorithms on social media. For instance, when an artist critiques the government by voicing public concerns, there is potential for horizontal support.
However, at the same time, there is a growing fear of threats to creativity, leading to self-censorship.
Beyond the issue of censorship, the Friday discussion also touched on the role of relationships between local and global art communities, media, and festivals as alternative spaces that strengthen solidarity among artists and safeguard freedom of expression.
Artists are never entirely free in their creative work; they remain bound by norms and ethics. Collaborative strategies between artists, media, and communities can help navigate or resist censorship.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Image: Freepik