Jakarta, 9 October 2025 – Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky Harsya attended the opening of Indonesian Contemporary Art & Design (ICAD) 15, themed Earth Society. The Minister expressed his appreciation for the 15th edition of ICAD as an important platform supporting a diverse spectrum of professions, communities, academics, policymakers, and creative industry players.
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kemenekraf - Menteri Ekonomi Kreatif, Teuku Riefky Harsya, turut meresmikan pembukaan Indonesian Contemporary Art & Design (ICAD) 15 yang bertajuk Earth Society, Jakarta, Kamis (09/10/2025).
“We extend our highest appreciation to the organizers and participants who have presented this event as a platform for collaboration, inspiration, and a driver of Indonesia’s creative economy. May ICAD 15 be successful and demonstrate the potential of the design subsector as a valuable contributor to society. Together we support the creative economy as the new engine of national growth,” said Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky in his remarks at the event held at GrandKemang Hotel, Jakarta, on Thursday, 9 October 2025.
ICAD 15 runs from 10 October to 9 November 2025, offering an exhibition with a global perspective on the relationship between individuals, communities, and nature. The 15th edition marks a creative shift in collective practice and exploration of sustainability in a broader context.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
Earth Society creates a reflective and speculative space bringing together artists and designers from within and outside Indonesia to re-examine artworks, science, climate activism, technology, and local knowledge. Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky noted that ICAD continues to build a solid ecosystem and contribute new perspectives on art, design, and a sustainable future.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar, through a video played prior to the opening, highlighted the role of ICAD in supporting the creative economy amid global challenges. For her, ICAD is not merely an exhibition but has evolved into a public space enabling artists, designers, and various stakeholders to collaborate.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
“Through this event, we witness works that showcase economic and social value while strengthening national identity. This is what keeps ICAD relevant year after year. I hope ICAD continues to serve as inspiration, education, and motivation to foster strong relationships between Indonesia and other nations, enabling continuous growth and competitiveness,” Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene stated.
The collaboration between the Ministry of Creative Economy and ICAD follows the audience session held on 4 February 2025, as part of strategic efforts to raise public awareness and appreciation for art and design in the context of social issues. ICAD 15 features over 50 participants (artists and designers) from various countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Egypt, France, and the United States.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
Participants are grouped into five categories: Special Appearance, In Focus, Featured, Collaborations, and Open Call. One of the most notable works comes from Indonesia’s 6th President, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY), who is showcasing five pieces reflecting his contemplation of life and nature. In a symbolic moment during the opening ceremony, SBY added strokes to a canvas to mark the official opening of ICAD 15 to the public.
Attending the opening ceremony were Minister of Culture Fadli Zon; Minister of Investment and Downstreaming/Head of the Investment Coordinating Board Rosan P. Roeslani; Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy 2020–2024 Sandiaga Uno; Festival Director Edwin Nazir; ICAD Steering Committee member Diana Nazir; renowned designer Ghea Panggabean; along with artists and creative industry figures.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky was accompanied by Deputy Minister for Cultural and Design Creativity Yuke Sri Rahayu; Director of Architecture and Design Sabar Norma Megawati Panjaitan; Special Advisor on Strategic and Interagency Issues Rian Syaf; and Special Advisor on Communications, Media, and Public Services Renanda Bachtar.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
