“DIJAGA,” meaning “Preserved” in the Indonesian language, explores the internal conflicts and struggles experienced by young Indonesians during identity exploration. The work originates from a central question: How can Indonesian Generation Z navigate identity development while learning and preserving local values amid globalization?

Inspired by Indonesian ornamental design and symbolic octopus imagery, the artwork visualizes the tension between traditional and globalized values. The mandala pattern represents balance and unity, with its center symbolizing a grounded core identity. The octopus, with its many tentacles, symbolizes the diversity of values and serves as a metaphor for the risk of losing one’s sense of self when overwhelmed by external influences.

This piece was created using fine pen techniques on wood and reflects a personal and cultural contemplation of identity in a globalized era. Ink on 30cm x 30cm x 1.5cm Wood. The work has been presented at

• IMDES 2025 Academic Artwork Exhibition, National Art Gallery, Langkawi, Malaysia (30 July – 3 August 2025): https://imdes.umn.ac.id/
• VISUM Pameran Ragam Rupa, Sta’s Coffee & Eatery, Tangerang, Indonesia (10–12 November 2017)

The author would like to express sincere gratitude to Universitas Multimedia Nusantara for its support and to VISUM for the artist invitation.