Lot 18: Sulitnya

BUDI KUSTARTO (b. Indonesia 1972) Sulitnya signed and dated 'Budi KUSTARTO 2004' (lower right); signed and dated again and titled (on reverse) oil on canvas 78 3/4 x 55 1/8 in. (200 x 140 cm.)

The artist asks about the personal role within the artistic environment by placing himself in his works. His placement within the limitations of the canvas space is indicative of the limitation of life in general. In this particular work, 'Difficult', the weight of his body is suggested with his stance going against gravity - the figure looks like he is boxed in. The effect of his x-ray like portrayal also adds another dimension to his work.