Ubud museums are a must-visit for anyone interested in the art and culture of Bali. The town of Ubud is known for its vibrant arts scene, and its museums offer a glimpse into the history, tradition, and contemporary art of the island. Here are some of the most popular museums in Ubud, each with its own unique offerings.
Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA)
Background and History
The Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) was founded by the late Agung Rai, a Balinese businessman and art collector. The museum opened in 1996 and has since become one of the most popular museums in Ubud.
Art and artifacts on display
The museum features a diverse collection of Balinese and Indonesian art, including traditional and contemporary works. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and traditional artifacts such as wayang kulit (shadow puppets) and gamelan instruments. The museum also has a collection of works by international artists who have been inspired by Bali and Indonesia.
Special exhibitions
ARMA regularly hosts special exhibitions, showcasing the works of both established and emerging artists from Indonesia and around the world. The museum also hosts cultural events such as traditional dance performances, music concerts, and workshops.
Guided tours
Guided tours of the museum are available in English, Indonesian, and Japanese. The tours provide an in-depth look at the museum’s collection and offer insights into the art, culture, and history of Bali and Indonesia.
Museum Puri Lukisan
Background and History
Museum Puri Lukisan is one of the oldest museums in Ubud, established in 1956 by the late Cokorda Gede Agung Sukawati, a Balinese prince and patron of the arts. The museum is housed in a traditional Balinese palace and is dedicated to preserving and promoting the art of Bali.
Art and artifacts on display
The museum has a large collection of traditional and contemporary Balinese art, including paintings, wood carvings, and sculptures. The collection includes works by many of Bali’s most famous artists, such as I Gusti Nyoman Lempad and I Gusti Made Deblog. The museum also has a collection of traditional textiles and other artifacts.
Special exhibitions
Museum Puri Lukisan regularly hosts special exhibitions, showcasing the works of both established and emerging Balinese artists. The museum also hosts cultural events such as traditional dances and ceremonies.
Guided tours
Guided tours of the museum are available in English, Indonesian and Japanese. The tours provide an in-depth look at the museum’s collection and offer insights into the art, culture, and history of Bali.
Ubud Royal Palace
Background and History
Ubud Royal Palace is a traditional Balinese palace that was built in the 19th century by the late Cokorda Gede Agung Sukawati, a Balinese prince and patron of the arts. The palace is the former residence of the royal family of Ubud and is now open to the public as a museum.
Art and artifacts on display
The palace features traditional Balinese architecture and is decorated with intricate carvings and paintings. The palacealso has a collection of traditional artifacts, such as gamelan instruments, wayang kulit puppets, and textiles. Visitors can see the palace’s beautiful courtyards and traditional bale (gazebos) and also view the throne room where the king and queen of Ubud once held court.
Special exhibitions
The palace also hosts special exhibitions, showcasing traditional and contemporary Balinese art and artifacts. Visitors can also witness traditional dances and ceremonies that take place in the palace’s courtyards.
Guided tours
Guided tours of the palace are available in English, Indonesian, and Japanese. The tours provide an in-depth look at the palace’s architecture, art, and history and offer insights into the royal traditions of Bali.
In conclusion, these are some of the most popular museums in Ubud, each with its own unique offerings. From traditional and contemporary art to traditional artifacts and royal history, there is something for everyone to discover and enjoy in these museums. Visitors should take advantage of the guided tours available, to gain a deeper understanding of the art, culture, and history of Bali and Indonesia.
