During my time in Bali [Indonesia] I encountered many daily offerings locally known as “Canang Sari”. This practice of giving thanks stems from a local combination of beliefs such as a distinct form of Hindu worship, animism, ancestor worship and reverence for Buddhist. The “Canang Sari” can be made for all kinds of reasons and occasions. Traditionally a little basket generally consisting of banana & coconut leaves is handmade everyday and holds the offering. The often colourful and lively looking offerings may be found at home or in the immediate vicinity to your house. At work or in the main street. At the front door or in the garden. They are placed and prayers spoken in order to please the gods and bring luck & good fortune for people, other living beings, this specific location and its energy.
In its current iteration local plants, candy & other natural objects are brought together with several traditional aspects in order to find a balanced mix between the present western culture and the offerings eastern origin. By combining our own environment with the experiences and the mindset encountered in Indonesia, Canang Sari intends to instill similar gratitude and respect towards our surrounding world. To inspire a different approach and connection with nature in both a physical and spiritual sense.
The most recent offering presented at TAC Eindhoven is a personal take on what a Canang Sari may bring to a social event such as this exhibition and wishes well upon all present artists, visitors and the space.
Canang sari (ᬘᬦᬂᬲᬭᬶ) – daily offering
Canang – palm leaf basket
kawi (old javanese) language – ca (beautiful) nang (purpose)
Sari (balinese word) – essence
beautiful purpose essence