Wednesday, March 26, 2025
SAKA Museum at AYANA Bali is excited to unveil three stunning new exhibitions that offer an immersive experience into the island’s vibrant cultural heritage. Set to open in early April, following Bali’s sacred Nyepi holiday—known as the Day of Silence—these exhibits invite visitors to delve into the island’s deep-rooted traditions, its profound connection to nature, and the spirituality that guides everyday life.
The new exhibitions are:
- Kasanga: Nyepi Exhibition
- Subak: The Ancient Order of Bali
- Heritage Gallery: The Five Elements (Panca Maha Bhuta)
These additions join the museum’s existing renowned exhibits, including Sasi Wimba Haneng Gata Poem, Palelintangan: Balinese Astrology, and Ogoh-ogoh: Walking Among Giants. Together, these exhibitions create a comprehensive exploration of Bali’s rich cultural fabric, emphasizing the island’s beliefs, traditions, and the spiritual philosophy of Tri Hita Karana—the Balinese principle that fosters harmony between God, nature, and humanity.
The museum also celebrates the masterpieces of renowned Balinese artists, showcasing their creative contributions to the island’s artistic legacy. This is an extraordinary opportunity to experience the creativity, spirituality, and cultural identity that define Bali.
A Journey into Bali’s Cultural Heritage
The three exhibitions are thoughtfully designed to weave together the diverse aspects of Balinese life. Heritage Gallery: The Five Elements explores the ancient spiritual teachings of the island’s five core elements, while Subak: The Ancient Order of Bali delves into Bali’s unique agricultural system and its UNESCO-listed water temple network. The Kasanga: Nyepi Exhibition offers visitors an immersive experience of the island’s most revered day of silence, showcasing numerous artworks related to the different stages of the Nyepi celebrations. “Through these exhibitions, visitors will gain a deeper appreciation of the role these practices play in daily Balinese life—how they guide spiritual observances, the rhythms of the island, and the collective consciousness of the Balinese people,” said Marlowe Bandem, Executive Advisor of SAKA Museum.
SAKA Museum: A Year of Cultural Excellence and New Exhibitions
Since its opening last year, the SAKA Museum has quickly become one of Bali’s most cherished cultural landmarks. With its innovative exhibits, the museum has garnered praise for offering visitors an engaging and authentic look into the island’s artistic and spiritual legacy. The newly launched exhibitions further enhance its already popular collection, which has received glowing reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor and Google. These exhibits continue to captivate guests by immersing them in the rich culture and traditions of Bali.
A Cultural Hub for All
The SAKA Museum is more than just a collection of exhibits; it is a vibrant cultural hub dedicated to connecting both locals and international visitors to the heart of Bali’s heritage. In its mission to deepen the understanding of the island’s unique traditions, the museum offers complimentary educational visits to schools, university students, researchers, and anyone with an educational purpose. Educational visits can be arranged by emailing the museum in advance.
“We want SAKA Museum to be a place of connection, where people from all walks of life can come together to celebrate and learn about Bali’s traditions,” said Dr Judith Bosnak, Director of SAKA Museum. “By collaborating with local schools, we’re helping ensure that future generations of Balinese are not only educated about their heritage but also inspired to carry it forward.”
