REINTERPRETING URBAN IDENTITY THROUGH YIN–YANG SYMBOLISM: SIX TONDO PAINTINGS ON MODERN TECHNOLOGY AND SPIRITUAL TRADITION

This MBKM Independent Project explores the tension between the demands of rationality and the rapid pace of modern technology (represented by Yin) and the inner needs associated with spiritual traditions and cultural roots (represented by Yang) in contemporary urban life. Rather than treating these dimensions as evidence of an empirically established identity crisis, the project interprets them as two forces that may exist in a complementary relationship. The project aims to formulate an artistic interpretation of urban identity through Yin–Yang symbolism, visualize this relationship through spiritual figures on circular Tondo canvases, and apply coloring and texturing techniques developed through mentoring with artist I Made Toris Mahendra, S.Sn. Its conceptual framework draws on Stuart Hall’s discussion of cultural identity and hybridity, Ulrich Beck’s theory of reflexive modernization, and the philosophies of Rwa Bhineda and Yin–Yang, informed by interviews with Dr. Mikke Susanto, S.Sn., M.A. The creation method adapts S. P. Gustami’s three stages exploration, design, and embodiment and develops them into the Symbolic-Hybrid Reinterpretation Method. Data were gathered through observation, literature review, and interviews. The project resulted in six Tondo paintings representing areas of urban life: digital communication (Buddha), food and agriculture (Dewi Sri), urban planning and architecture (Lord Ganesha), health (Lord Dhanvantari), transportation (Boma), and water management (Dewi Danu). The works combine Chinese ink, acrylic painting, glazing, texture paste, and the stylization of Wayang Kamasan to explore a visual dialogue between modern technology and traditional spirituality.