The Artistry and Aesthetics of Prasi by I Gusti Agung Ngurah in Sidemen Village, Karangasem, Bali

Abstract

The tradition of creating Prasi is believed to have emerged alongside the tradition of nyurat or writing on lontar leaves. The term Prasi, used to refer to images on lontar or ental leaves (Suwidja, 1979), derives from the root word amarasi, which means to engrave or draw (Alit Artawan, 2013). "Ngarajah" is synonymous with the creation of drawings or images imbued with magical significance; these lines are believed to channel positive energy and ward off evil influences. Emerging from this tradition of "ngarajah," Prasi art is a form of expression that carries magical value and possesses extraordinary allure. Prasi works are one of Bali’s cultural art forms currently experiencing a creative stagnation, leading to a decline in the appeal of creating Prasi. The process of making Prasi uses lontar leaves and a pangrupak knife a small, sharp blade used to etch the designs. This pangrupak knife plays a central role in the creation of Prasi works. The enduring presence of traditional artist I Gusti Agung Ngurah is believed to stem from the development of innovative ideas and concepts, which keep his work relevant and in demand in today’s market. This is particularly intriguing given that Prasi’s work has managed to endure. Through qualitative research and approaches rooted in Aesthetics, Semiotics, and Cultural Studies, this study aims to ‘dissect’ Prasi’s works to determine whether structure, form, artistic expression, aesthetics, and meaning influence their appeal. The research generally seeks to identify the distinctive methods used by I Gusti Agung Ngurah in creating Prasi, particularly when compared to works by other Prasi artists. It is hoped that in-depth research and exploration will reveal the durability and appeal of Prasi works, thereby identifying a Prasi concept that can serve as a guideline and model for Prasi imagery within specific spaces and functions. This study places greater emphasis on forms of creativity and innovation in cultural art, specifically Prasi works. The focus of this research is fundamentally different from studies in other research, and no previous research has specifically and deeply explored and explained the artistry, aesthetics, and meaning of Prasi, its character, and the creativity of its visual forms. Therefore, it is important and relevant to be examined as a dissertation topic.