Yogyakarta, May 8th 2025 — The warm nuances of the month of Syawal combined with the spirit of art and togetherness in the Syawalan Seni event held by the Performing Arts and Fine Arts Study Program (PSPSR) of the UGM Postgraduate School. The event took place on Thursday, May 8th 2025 at the Auditorium on the 5th Floor of the Postgraduate School, carried the theme “Menjalin Silaturahmi, Menggelar Apresiasi”, and was attended by more than 60 alumni from various classes, as well as lecturers and academics staff.
This Syawalan was not just a post-Eid reunion, but also a space for reflection and appreciation of the journey of alumni who have played a role in various fields, both as academics, artists, researchers, and cultural practitioners. A fluid and nostalgic atmosphere enveloped the room from the beginning of the event, which began with a dance performance as a form of respect for the cultural roots and artistic spirit that has been the identity of PSPSR.
The event was then continued with an introduction for the speakers who are also lecturers and important figures in the development of performing arts and fine arts sciences at UGM, namely Dr. Raden Rara Paramitha Dyah Fitriasari, S.Ant., M.Hum. and Dr. Aris Setiawan, S.Sn., M.Sn. Both shared reflective views on the importance of maintaining alumni networks as an intellectual and cultural force in facing the challenges of the times.
Dr. Aris Setiawan, in his presentation, emphasized that PSPSR alumni are the face of educational success that combines art studies with social, cultural, and technological contexts. “This gathering is important to rebuild awareness that art is not only about expression, but also a contribution in change,” was the main point of his words.
Meanwhile, Dr. Paramitha Dyah Fitriasari emphasized the value of humanity in art, which according to her cannot be separated from the practice of daily life. She invited alumni to continue to collaborate across fields and strengthen the position of art in the discourse of sustainable development.
The lively discussion was not only a space to exchange stories, but also a place to actualize ideas. Several alumni also shared their experiences after completing their studies, ranging from involvement in community-based art projects, culture, and the development of art literacy.
The event was closed with a group photo session, with meaning. The session became a symbol of eternal togetherness, across generations, across professions, and across regions. This Syawalan Seni is a reminder that the PSPSR scientific house is not only a place to learn, but also a space to grow together, a place to return to for those who have traveled a long path as artists and art critics.
This event, with the spirit of Syawal which is full of the meaning of cleanliness of heart and openness, is expected to be able to strengthen the alumni network as a collective force that plays an active role in the development of art and culture in Indonesia and the world. Not only to strengthen friendships, but also to strengthen contributions.
Author: Burhanul Aqil