Sentani, Jubi – Artists in Jayapura Regency regretted the lack of creative space for them to do their work in that area. Until now, Jayapura Regency has yet to have a cultural park as a center for arts that supports the development of arts and culture, as well as fostering artistic and cultural programs.
Artist Edison Paisei said that art galleries and places to hold performances are very limited at Bumi Khena Mbay Umbai.
Jayapura Regency as the entrance to Papua Province, Pasei said, should be a barometer for other regions. There are dozens of art studios, artists, and culturalists in this region. However, the space to express the art is very limited.
“In areas with a fairly high population growth rate, arts and entertainment are important for the community,” said Edison Paisei to Jubi in Sentani on Monday, August 1, 2022.
Yafet Felle, an artist in Jayapura Regency, said the same thing. According to Felle, art and culture are mostly used in ceremonial activities only, such as when receiving regional guests who come through Sentani Airport.
On the other hand, Jayapura Regent Mathius Awoitauw said that the development of arts and culture in the area was going well, in line with the growing tourist attractions by community members who utilized the surrounding natural potential.
“We indeed must provide more space and opportunities for the development of the art and culture scene. We have given a mandate to the relevant agencies to pay attention to the needs of artists and cultural actors,” said Awoitauw. (*)
