Summary of Permanent Art Exhibits in Ubud
Permanent Art Exhibits in Bali’s Most Artistic Town
These art galleries in the Central Bali town of Ubud represent the pinnacle of Bali’s indulgent attitude to art and its creators.
For generations, Ubud’s nobles have long prided themselves on their roles as patrons of fine art; their sponsorship has helped make Ubud an artist’s haven, attracting creatives from all over Indonesia and abroad. The Ubud nobles’ careful cultivation of upcoming Balinese artists has borne fruit in present-day artists’ communities, which continue to fill Ubud’s art galleries with their unique creativity.
Whether you’re simply exploring or hoping to acquire Balinese art for your personal collection, these Ubud art galleries should be at the top of any Ubud travel agenda.
Museum Puri Lukisan: Princely Lineage
Located just a few minutes’ walk west of the Ubud Royal Palace, the Museum Puri Lukisan showcases an impressive collection of Ubud modern art, housed in three gallery buildings situated throughout a calm, beautifully manicured garden.
The Museum Puri Lukisan traces its roots to the kind patronage of an Ubud prince, Tjokorda Gde Agung Sukawati, who co-founded the gallery with expatriate artist Rudolf Bonnet. The three gallery buildings narrate the development of modern art in Ubud, and visitors must explore each building in a specific sequence. The annual Kebiar Seni presents new works from Bali’s young traditional artists on the museum grounds, which creates opportunities for collectors to acquire exceptional pieces from emerging masters.
The address is Jalan Raya Ubud, Ubud, Bali (Location on Google Maps). The phone number is +62 361 971159, and for more information, visit museumpurilukisan.com.
Blanco Renaissance Museum: Spanish Fly
After the Catalan romantic-turned-beloved Balinese expatriate artist known as Antonio Blanco passed away in 1999, the mansion he left behind was transformed into a memorial to his life’s work.
The building and the art inside present a fascinating picture of Blanco, with exterior sculptures resembling his signature and an interior adorned with graceful, erotically languid nude portraits.
Other buildings on the five-acre property include the family house, where Blanco’s son Mario continues in his father’s footsteps; a temple; a restaurant; and a gift shop selling prints of the master’s work. The address is Jalan Raya Campuhan, Kedewatan, Ubud (Location on Google Maps). You can reach them at +62 361 975 502, with more details available at blancomuseum.com.
Agung Rai Museum of Art: Years Apart
The Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) boasts a vast private collection, one of the largest in Bali, assembled by a local entrepreneur, curator, and resort owner. The works displayed span different eras in Balinese art, with some pieces dating back to the early 20th century.
ARMA features works from various artists, including Javanese and foreign artists who settled in Ubud before World War II, such as Rudolph Bonnet and Walter Spies, whose work is displayed as a distinct collection.
Visitors must pay an entrance fee of IDR 40,000 per person. The address is Pengosekan Road, Ubud, Bali (Location on Google Maps). For inquiries, call +62 361 974 228, or visit armabali.com/museum.
Museum Rudana Fine Art Gallery: Best of the Best
The Museum Rudana, founded by Ubud politician Nyoman Rudana, displays an eclectic collection of contemporary Balinese and Indonesian art, with over 400 pieces arranged across three levels. This gallery showcases impressive works from Ubud art stalwarts, including the late Don Antonio Blanco and I Gusti Nyoman Lempad.
Art collectors will also find the Rudana Gallery next door, which offers new artworks from emerging Ubud artists. The entrance fee is IDR 20,000 per head. The address is Jalan Cokorda Rai Pudak No. 44, Peliatan, Ubud (Location on Google Maps). The phone number is +62 361 975 779, and you can find out more at therudana.org.
Neka Art Museum: Exhibit in a Garden
The Neka Art Museum features approximately 300 pieces of modern Balinese art, showcasing works from the late 19th century to the present within its 2,500 sqm exhibition space. The Balinese-style pavilions are set in a tranquil garden, offering a glimpse into various facets of the country’s artistic talent.
It is essential not to confuse the Neka Art Museum with the Neka Gallery, which is an affiliated yet distinct collection. Don’t miss the display of the week at the exhibition hall. Other amenities on-site include a bookshop and a café, making it a perfect destination for art enthusiasts. The address is Jalan Raya Campuhan, Kedewatan, Ubud (Location on Google Maps). For further information, call +62 361 975 074 or visit museumneka.com.
