Trubus Soedarsono

Trubus Soedarsono (1926-1966) was a significant Indonesian artist whose career unfolded during a tumultuous period in Indonesia's history. His journey into the world of art began under the guidance of prominent artists Sudjojono and Affandi in Jakarta during the Japanese Occupation from 1942 to 1945.

Active in several artist collectives, including SIM and Pelukis Rakyat in Yogyakarta, Soedarsono played a role in anti-Dutch propaganda efforts after World War II. His political involvement led to his imprisonment by the Dutch in 1948. However, he later became an art lecturer, held government positions, and even had his artworks included in the collection of President Sukarno.

Soedarsono's artistic repertoire consisted of oil paintings that portrayed ethereal and impressionistic scenes of Indonesian culture. His works resonated with a sense of historical and cultural significance.

Tragically, his life took a dark turn, and he became a victim of the purges following the failed 1966 communist coup. This unfortunate event elevated the value of his artworks among collectors, not only because of their artistic merit but also due to their historical significance and the tragic fate of the artist himself.