Jakarta, July 21, 2026 – In celebration of National Children's Day 2026, Deputy Minister of Creative Economy / Deputy Head of the Creative Economy Agency, Irene Umar, together with Deputy Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Veronica Tan, visited the Awan Cerah photography exhibition. The Deputy Minister of Creative Economy believes the exhibition exemplifies collaboration that strengthens the creative economy ecosystem from an early age through the photography subsector.
Deputy Minister of Creative Economy / Deputy Head of the Creative Economy Agency, Irene Umar (right), together with Deputy Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Veronica Tan (left), visits the Awan Cerah photography exhibition at Emiria Soenassa Gallery, Jakarta, on Tuesday (July 21, 2026).
"Awan Cerah showcases photographic works created by children whose remarkable talent is evident through images captured without any editing, making the results truly extraordinary. This photography exhibition is the outcome of collaboration between the Ministry of Creative Economy and cross-sector partners to provide a creative platform for Indonesia's children," said the Deputy Minister during her visit to Emiria Soenassa Gallery, Taman Ismail Marzuki, Jakarta, on Tuesday (July 21).
The exhibition is open to the public free of charge every day from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (WIB) from July 3 to August 1, 2026. Carrying the theme "Young and Cultured," the exhibition highlights a creative space where imagination and cultural identity intersect, allowing young photographers to capture the rhythms of life and the diversity of Indonesia. A total of 1,277 photographs submitted by 643 participants are on display, presenting unique and authentic perspectives on the culture surrounding them.
"This exhibition creates a creative space that encourages children to express themselves through Indonesia's culture. It fosters a culture of nurturing children who innovate, create, and are given opportunities to produce meaningful works. Most importantly, collaboration must remain at the heart of all stakeholders' efforts to provide Indonesian children with a safe and supportive environment for their future. Happy National Children's Day!" said Deputy Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Veronica Tan.
Photo: Bureau for Communication, Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
The exhibition layout has been designed as an interactive experience divided into five main zones: a curatorial area, a children's gallery (ages 6–11), a youth gallery (ages 12–16), a workshop area, and a merchandise area. This approach transforms the exhibition into not only a display of artworks but also an educational medium that fosters meaningful interaction between visitors, the artworks, and cultural narratives.
"Children naturally express themselves and capture what they feel through photography. Today, they already use mobile phones to take photos and enjoy sharing them on social media. That is why we do not limit the type of camera they use. What matters most is that they honestly express what they want to create," said Retno Audite Matin, founder of the AWAN community.
The AWAN (Asuh Watak dan Asuh Nalar) community serves as a platform for mentoring, training, and character development for children and adolescents. Through various creative activities, the community focuses on nurturing young people's skills, initiative, and talents, enabling them to create meaningful works and contribute positively to society and the nation.
Photo: Bureau for Communication, Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
"We want children to see that Indonesia's culture is truly beautiful. Culture is not only reflected in traditional fabrics but also in everyday values that remind us of courtesy and respect. My hope is that these young Indonesian talents will continue to grow and become even more skilled in capturing the beauty of life in Indonesia. Keep exploring your photography skills and continue creating even more beautiful works," said Dite.
Meanwhile, the CERAH Program (Cerita, Ekspansif, Retorik, Aspiratif, dan Hakiki) offers a comprehensive series of activities encompassing education, the creative process, and the exhibition itself. In addition to enjoying the photography exhibition, visitors can participate in weekend talk shows and workshops featuring professional photographers, artists, and inspiring speakers.
"This is the creative economy—an ecosystem without age limits, where everyone is free to create. Most importantly, create from the heart. Creative greetings!" concluded the Deputy Minister, who was accompanied by Director of Photography and Publishing, Iman Santosa.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Head of the Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
