Artist Statement

Rostarr's 'Evolving Landscapes' Is An Epic Tribute to Bali's Shifting Spirit

The idea for 'Evolving Landscapes' began on the sands of Bali, where American artist Rostarr, known for his abstract calligraphic language born out of graffiti and gesture, spent weeks observing the island's coastline, its temples, its dancers, and its daily rituals of worship to sun and sea. What he found was a place defined by constant motion. Now, that same energy is spreading across the entire façade of Potato Head Beach Club, in full view for everyone to see. The result is a mural of epic proportions remaining on view for a full year.

“Evolving Landscapes” — A monumental mural by artist Rostarr. Courtesy of the artist.

Bio: Romon Kimin Yang aka Rostarr is a multidisciplinary artist in painting, abstract calligraphy, large-scale murals, and experimental filmmaking. Born in South Korea in 1971, he immigrated with his family to Washington, D.C., as a one-year-old, and in 1989 he moved to New York City to attend the School of Visual Arts, where he majored in graphic design and printmaking.

Title of work: Evolving Landscapes

Where to see it: Desa Potato Head in Seminyak, Bali

Three words to describe this work: Monumental, Rhythmic & Glyphic

What was on your mind at the time: I was thinking about Balinese culture and dance, Hindu Gods, Sun worship & Good times while making this mural.

Portrait of Rosterr. Photo by Adrian Morris.

An interesting feature that’s not immediately noticeable: I created two Barong spirits that greet you from the two entrances into Potato Head Beach Club.

How the work reflects your practice as a whole: As with most of my work, I never sketch my ideas first, but I prefer to build my works in a free formed way that reveals itself to me in the process.

One song that captures the work’s essence: “Life Is Just A Moment, Pt. 2” by Roy Ayers Ubiquity.

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