RESTU RATNANINGTYAS

Domestic Symbols and Daring Spectacle

Restu Ratnaningtyas explores themes of human experience, memory, and social change, often using paper and fabric to create works that feel both intimate and reflective. Her art draws on nostalgia, popular culture, and collective memory, blending domestic symbolism with public spectacle. Influenced by Surrealism and automatic drawing, Restu’s practice reflects on how individuals and communities adapt over time.

For Pasar Malam, Restu presents Roda Roda Gila (Crazy Wheels), a screenprint depicting the Tong Edan—a thrilling night market attraction where motorcyclists ride inside a giant timber barrel. The print mimics a paper toy or blueprint, inviting viewers to imagine cutting and assembling a scale model of the spectacle. This playful approach contrasts with the danger and daring of the performance, highlighting themes of engineering, entertainment, and cultural nostalgia.

Think About & Discuss

Restu’s screenprint mimics a paper toy or blueprint, inviting viewers to imagine cutting and assembling the Tong Edan attraction. This transforms a high-risk spectacle into a participatory, domestic act of making.

Look closely at Roda Roda Gila. How does its design suggest interaction or play?

What feelings or memories does the idea of cutting and assembling evoke? Childhood? Craft? Engineering?

Find one contemporary artwork that invites audience participation. Summarise how that artwork uses play or interaction to engage viewers.

• How does Restu’s approach differ from or resemble your chosen example?

• Does making the audience “do something” change the meaning of the artwork? Why?

• In groups, debate: Is play in art just fun, or can it be critical and political?

• Outline the different ways Lawrence and Restu both use play in their works.

Extension art making: Create a net and prototype of a structure that would create a sense of nostalgia to your culture or childhood.