THE WERDHI BUDAYA ART CENTER

The Werdhi Budaya Art Center was built in 1973 to the design of the prominent Balinese architect, Ida Bagus Tugur as a showplace for Bali's performing and fine arts. Strategically situated on Jalan Nusa lndah, Abian Kapas, Denpasar, the art center has three art galleries including one permanent art collection and several outdoor stages and performance pavilions including the huge open stage and arena, Ardha Chandra. Seminar and exhibition halls are often utilized by local artists and groups from dance drama and music school STSI. Since 1979, a tradition of a Festival of the Arts has been instigated as an annual fixture. This takes place each June-July, with a comprehensive program of gamelan and dance performances, competitions of traditional Balinese skill, and giant productions of the Ramayana and Mahabrata ballets, lasting about 4 weeks in all. Open everyday (08.00 - 16.00) except on official holidays.

One of the most beautiful temples of Denpasar is the Central Pura Jagat Nata at the northeast corner of Puputan Square. This temple comes alive at the full moon ceremony. Worshippers from all over the city are gathered to bring their offerings and devotions.

On the main street of Denpasar, its restful shade and gnarled frangipani trees offering a welcome contrast to the hub of city traffic is the market temple, Pura Melanting, where busy vendors pause to make their offerings for a prosperous day.

For modern Balinese architecture, do not miss the Werdhi Budaya Art Center. New shrine of the island’s culture, hosts a museum of the Balinese arts as well as stages for dance and theater. On its monumental Ksira Arnawa stage are held equally monumental displays of modern Balinese choreography.

HOME | bali interesting places