Situated just outside Ubud, the Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets invites visitors into the captivating world of traditional masks and puppets. With its carefully curated collections and enchanting setting, the museum stands as a unique repository for preserving Indonesia’s vast heritage of masks and puppetry, drawing visitors from around the globe.
Beyond the Vibrant Faces: Setia Darma House of Mask and Puppets Bali
Initiated by a Visionary Collector
The House of Masks and Puppets was founded in 2006 by Mr. Hadi Sunyoto, a businessman and cultural enthusiast with a deep appreciation for traditional Indonesian art. Over years of travel and collection, Mr. Sunyoto amassed thousands of masks and puppets from different regions across Indonesia and beyond. Concerned about the declining appreciation for these art forms, he established the museum as a space dedicated to conserving, showcasing, and spreading awareness of masks and puppets. For Mr. Sunyoto, the term “house” aptly symbolizes a welcoming space where culture and creativity thrive, much like the role of a family home in fostering tradition.
A Diverse and Extensive Collection: Over 7,000 Masks and Puppets
Setia Darma’s impressive collection comprises approximately 7,000 items, with around 1,300 masks and over 5,700 ‘wayang’ puppets from Indonesia, Asia, and beyond. The vast majority of the pieces are from various Indonesian regions, showcasing the diversity of the nation’s artistry and cultural practices. The museum also houses masks and puppets from countries like Japan, China, Thailand, and Myanmar, broadening the scope for visitors to appreciate similar art forms across different cultures. This international touch enables visitors to see connections between Indonesian traditions and those of other cultures.
Among the most fascinating pieces are Bali’s ceremonial masks and the ancient wayang kulit (shadow puppets) of Java. Bali’s masks, often used in Hindu religious ceremonies, display intricate designs and powerful expressions. The wayang kulit puppets, on the other hand, tell epic tales of gods and heroes and are celebrated for their meticulous craftsmanship. The museum also features Barong Landung puppets and other ceremonial masks, which add a distinctive Balinese charm to the collection.
Exhibition Spaces in Traditional Joglo Houses
The museum’s collections are displayed within four beautifully restored Javanese Joglo houses, traditional wooden structures typically made from teak wood and associated with Java’s architectural heritage. These antique buildings, originally from East and Central Java, add a layer of authenticity and history to the museum’s setting. The Joglos provide a serene backdrop, allowing the intricate artistry of the masks and puppets to take center stage in a space that honors Indonesia’s architectural and cultural traditions.
Events, Exhibitions, and Venue for Hire
Since its inception, Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets has regularly held exhibitions and cultural events, ranging from puppet shows to mask-making workshops, that immerse visitors in the culture and history of these art forms. The museum’s grounds, covering over ten thousand square meters, include a scenic open field, a lush Balinese tropical garden, and a performance stage. These spaces are also available for hire, making the museum an ideal venue for cultural performances, family gatherings, school trips, and even film shoots. The museum’s location just 6 km from Ubud makes it accessible for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful, immersive experience. It is an ideal stop for those interested in art, culture, or simply a break from Ubud’s bustling streets. Directions are straightforward from central Ubud, with visible signage guiding visitors to the museum.
Embracing Indonesia’s Heritage
Indonesia’s 18,000 islands boast an astounding diversity of mask and puppet traditions. Each region has developed unique styles of masks and puppetry, often tied to local beliefs, religious ceremonies, and mythologies. Bali, for example, uses masks in sacred Hindu dances and rituals, while Java’s wayang kulit shadow puppetry tells timeless stories rooted in Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
The museum preserves numerous masks from Indonesia’s eastern regions, displaying bold tribal styles that contrast sharply with the refined artistry of Balinese and Javanese masks. These varied aesthetics within the collection offer a window into Indonesia’s cultural diversity, with each mask and puppet embodying the distinct artistry and stories of its origin.
Practical Information for Visitors
The Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets operates on a donation-based entry system, encouraging visitors to contribute toward the upkeep of the gardens and collections. The museum is open daily from 8 am to 4 pm, making it convenient for visitors to plan a morning or afternoon visit. Guided tours are also available for those interested in a more in-depth exploration of the exhibits.
Visitors are encouraged to wander through the museum’s impeccably maintained garden, where each Joglo holds a unique array of masks and puppets. A small on-site café, Café Topeng, offers refreshments near the parking lot, though it may have limited hours of operation. Additionally, clean restroom facilities are available for guests.
The Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets stands out as one of Ubud’s most distinctive cultural attractions, offering a rare and rich perspective on Indonesia’s traditional arts. The collection, housed within historic Javanese Joglos, preserves Indonesia’s mask and puppet heritage, bridging the past with the present. As one of Bali’s premier cultural destinations, Setia Darma is an enriching experience for anyone curious about Indonesian arts or seeking an engaging outing near Ubud. With its diverse exhibits, serene atmosphere, and commitment to cultural preservation, the Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets is a must-visit for travelers interested in discovering Bali’s deeper cultural layers.
