Harijadi Sumadidjaja

Indonesia

1919 – 1997

Harijadi Sumadidjaja was a self-taught realist painter and a key figure in Seniman Indonesia Muda (SIM), a group led by S. Sudjojono. His works played a vital role in the Indonesian Revolution, highlighting the struggles of the common people.

Originally trained in business, Harijadi began painting while working as a movie poster artist and later as a commercial artist in Jakarta (1940–1941). To support his family, he also worked as a teacher at a girls’ school.

Harijadi was also among the artists frequently invited by President Sukarno to discuss art, solidifying his influence in Indonesia’s artistic and revolutionary history.