On 17 April 2013, in commemoration of Bataviasche Kunstkring’s 99th anniversary and its launching as Tugu Kunstkring Paleis, about 300 distinguished guests braved the heavy rain to visit a graceful mansion in Menteng and enjoy an enchanting evening in beautiful spaces with interesting people.
The wine flowed and an excellent array of foods was served while the excited guests moved from room to room viewing a number of Art Showcases all bustling with energy and creativity.
On the upper floor, the bewitching melodies of a classical harp and violin duet transported the guests back in time to a more genteel period, while on the main floor everyone was entertained with a full Gamelan orchestra and a performance by Ondel-ondel minstrals in traditional dress.
Jakarta’s beloved Governor Jokowi officiated the festive Opening Night and had the honor of unveiling a massive painting entitled The Fall of Java by Anhar Setjadibrata, founder of Tugu Hotels Group, depicting the enormous sadness felt by the people of Java at the capture of Prince Diponegoro in 1830 by the Dutch military.
Art, in all its many forms, was the topic of the evening and every guest took a splendid memory back home with them. The following day, 18 April 2013, marked International Heritage Day and since then Tugu Kunstkring Paleis has been open to the public.
