GET TO KNOW INDONESIAN WAYANG: WORLD-CLASS TRADITIONAL ART HISTORY

Hello, Kawan Wayang, we meet again!

Have you ever heard of Wayang? It's a bit weird if you haven't because it's a world-class art. Just kidding, Kawan. Don't worry, here you will find amazing facts about the history of Indonesian Wayang. Let's get started!

(image source: id.pinterst.com)

WHAT IS WAYANG?

Wayang is a traditional Indonesian puppet theater. The word "wayang" comes from the Javanese language meaning “bayang.” In English it means shadow. However, in its development, the definition of wayang shifted to shadow theater performances. It is so called because this theater performs a story using a large white screen illuminated by spotlights, so that from behind the screen a shadow of the puppet being played is formed. Is also popular with the term “shadow puppetry.”

Wayang is not just an ordinary shadow theater performance art, but also a cultural symbol full of life values and morality. In addition, wayang is also often used in religious rituals or certain traditional ceremonies in Indonesian society.

VARIETY OF WAYANG IN INDONESIA

In Indonesia, there are many different types of puppets, depending on the region. Some of these types of puppets include wayang golek or wayang thengul which use 3-dimensional puppets made from wood. Wayang kulit uses 2-dimensional puppets made of animal skin. Wayang beber which uses wooden puppets but with thin dimensions. Then there is also wayang wong which is played directly by humans like a regular theater performance. 

For more info, read also: INDONESIAN WAYANG: HOW MANY TYPES?

ORIGIN AND DEVELOPMENT OF WAYANG

Wayang is known as a traditional art that has existed since ancient times. Let's look at its origin and development from ancient times to the present!

1. Neolithic Era

2.