Nashar

1928 – 1994

Nashar (1928–1994) was a self-taught Indonesian artist from Pariaman, West Sumatra, whose career was closely tied to Jakarta’s post-independence art scene. After joining Seniman Indonesia Muda and later Gabungan Pelukis Indonesia, he built his reputation through regular solo and group exhibitions from 1956 onward. He also worked as an illustrator for Mimbar Indonesia under HB. Jassin.

Renowned for his abstract depictions of stones, fish bones, and plants, Nashar was seen as a “genuine artist” devoted to art over commercial gain. He taught at the Jakarta Institute of Arts (IKJ) from 1970 and served on the Jakarta Arts Council, including as daily administrator from 1981 to 1984. His reflections on life and art were compiled in Surat-Surat Malam (“Night Letters”), revealing his optimism and fascination with the romanticism of struggle.