Jakarta, June 1, 2025 – Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar visited the art exhibition "May All Be Happy" by Oliver Wihardja, a young artist with autism. Deputy Minister Irene said that the exhibition was highly inspiring.
"Through this exhibition, we can see how the creative economy can serve as a platform for artists with autism to express themselves and develop their talents," said Deputy Minister Irene on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Oliver’s Barn in Depok, where the exhibition was held.
This exhibition showcases Oliver’s artworks depicting portraits of monks and the wise words of meditation teachers, rendered in his signature style marked by warmth and innocence. He built a strong reputation through his exhibitions, including Walk With Me (2022) and The Way of the Cross (2023), which introduced his work to a wider audience.
The Ministry of Creative Economy also supported the exhibition of Oliver Wihardja’s paintings during the 2025 Vesak celebration, one of which was dedicated to a Thai monk who made a pilgrimage to Borobudur on foot.
This visit proves the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the development of a creative economy that is inclusive and diverse. By promoting the works of artists with autism, it is hoped that public awareness and understanding of autism and diversity will increase, and that Indonesian youth will be encouraged to reach their fullest potential for the nation’s advancement.
Deputy Minister Irene also hoped that the exhibition would inspire other young artists to nurture their creativity. It is hoped to create opportunities for future collaboration between the Ministry and artists with autism.
"We remain committed to supporting and promoting the works of artists with autism and other special needs so that they may have equal opportunities to grow and contribute to the creative economy," she added.
Oliver Wihardja’s mother, Sinhwi Halim, expressed her gratitude to Deputy Minister Irene for attending the exhibition and for appreciating Oliver's artworks.
"I hope this exhibition can be an opportunity for Oliver to be more widely recognized and appreciated as a young artist with autism," Sinhwi said.
Reslyana Dwitasari
Acting Head of Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency
