Yogyakarta, August 14th 2025 – The Graduate Program in Performing Arts and Fine Arts Program (PSPSR), School of Postgraduate Studies, Universitas Gadjah Mada, held its welcoming event for new students entitled Beyond the Gate. The program was designed for master and doctoral students of the 2025/2026 academic year as an entry point into a dynamic and multidisciplinary academic life.
As a cross-disciplinary program that brings together students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, PSPSR recognizes the importance of an orientation space introducing the curriculum and academic environment, and fosters togetherness and an explorative spirit from the very beginning. The event, with the theme Beyond the Gate, symbolizes the transition of students from the outside world into the academic ecosystem of PSPSR, which is rich in artistic and cultural discourses. It also invited them to think critically and remain open to interdisciplinary approaches.
This event was organized with several main objectives: welcoming and introducing new students to the academic environment of PSPSR; providing initial understanding of the program’s vision, mission, curriculum, and academic culture; building relations of new students, lecturers, senior students, and academic staff; and cultivating explorative and collaborative spirit in facing studies and research in the fields of performing and fine arts.
The program consisted of two sessions. The first session, Academic Orientation, took place at the Meeting Room A, 5th floor of the UGM Graduate School, from 09.00 to 12.00 WIB. In this session, new students were introduced to the curriculum structure, vision and mission, and academic culture of PSPSR. The session also served as a platform for introductions among new students, lecturers, and staff, fostering a warm and collaborative academic atmosphere.
The second session, Appreciation Space, was held at the Ullen Sentalu Museum from 14.00 to 16.00 WIB. This session featured a collaborative music performance by international pianist Henk van Dijk and vocalist Stefanaventi Asriuni M. The performance unfolded in an intimate and reflective setting, offering participants a deep aesthetic experience. Following the performance, an interactive discussion on the creative process and artistic context was conducted, providing students with opportunities to broaden their critical appreciation of art and cross-cultural perspectives.
The new students were encouraged not only to become part of the academic community but also to cultivate an open, critical, and collaborative mindset, through Beyond the Gate. This spirit aligns with the vision of PSPSR as a hub for the study of performing and fine arts that emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, cultural reflection, and the development of creative thought.
Beyond the Gate, with its combination of academic orientation and artistic appreciation, is expected to equip new students with essential knowledge, social networks, and artistic experiences that will enrich their academic journey at PSPSR UGM.
Author: Khoirul Mujazanah