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Student Artwork Guide

Fish Bargaining

Name Class Date

Hendra Aprida Gunawan, Fish Bargaining (1982), Ciputra Artpreneur Museum. Reproduced for reference; rights reserved by the rights holder. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Hendra Aprida Gunawan topimpressionists.com/en/artists/hendra-aprida-gunawan/
Artist’s dates
1982 –
Painted
1982
Medium
Painting
Period
Contemporary
Held at
Ciputra Artpreneur Museum topimpressionists.com/en/museums/ciputra-artpreneur-museum-jakarta/

In context

Fish Bargaining — Hendra Aprida Gunawan

When was this painted?

  1. 1980

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span, counting 0 from birth.

Painted when the artist was 0.

▲ this work, 1982 every dated painting, decade by decade

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: topimpressionists.com/en/art/similar/hendra-aprida-gunawan-fish-bargaining-D4QVDL-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Clay #b3603a

    Catalogued palette

    • #B3603A
    • #2F4332
    • #13A58C
    • #D4AA87

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Palette
    Dark The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Clay
    Intensity
    Vivid How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Bold How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Discordant Palette How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Balanced How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Clear Color Presence How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Hendra Aprida Gunawan over the last twelve months — 5 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 65.0%1,300 visits
    2. 2 Indonesia 15.0%300 visits
    3. 3 United States of America 10.0%200 visits
    4. 4 Australia 5.0%100 visits
    5. 5 New Zealand 5.0%100 visits

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 20 most looked-at works by Hendra Aprida Gunawan

    1. 1 Catching a Butterfly, 1980 14.8%400 visits
    2. 2 Melasti Ceremony, 1982 11.1%300 visits
    3. 3 Fighting for the Mask, 1973 11.1%300 visits
    4. 4 Looking for Fish, 1976 3.7%100 visits
    5. 5 Dry Leaf Tree, 1981 3.7%100 visits
    6. 6 Hog Market, 1982 3.7%100 visits
    7. 7 Lake View II, 1974 3.7%100 visits
    8. 8 Fish Bargaining, 1982 this painting 3.7%100 visits
    9. 9 The Barber, 1941 3.7%100 visits
    10. 10 Goldfish I, 1975 3.7%100 visits
    11. 11 Lake View I, 1974 3.7%100 visits
    12. 12 Guerilla Soldiers, 1947 3.7%100 visits
    13. 13 Diponegoro Wounded at War, 1982 3.7%100 visits
    14. 14 Fighting for the Mask II, 1978 3.7%100 visits
    15. 15 Selling Fish I, 1974 3.7%100 visits
    16. 16 Return from Fishing, 1960 3.7%100 visits
    17. 17 Urbanite, 1980 3.7%100 visits
    18. 18 Washing Hair, 1975 3.7%100 visits
    19. 19 Fruit and Fish Seller, 1977 3.7%100 visits
    20. 20 Lizard, 1950 3.7%100 visits

    Together these works take 99.9% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 55 works by this artist, of which 20 were looked at at least once. This painting ranks 8 of them, with 3.7% of that attention (100 visits). The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    About this artwork

    Fish Bargaining — Hendra Aprida Gunawan

    A Vibrant Encounter on the Shoreline

    In the captivating painting Fish Bargaining, created in 1982 by the Indonesian artist Hendra Aprida Gunawan, the viewer is instantly transported to a sun-drenched coastal scene brimming with life and communal energy. The canvas serves as a window into a moment of profound human connection, where the simple act of commerce becomes a rhythmic dance of interaction. At the heart of this composition, three central figures—two women and a man—stand at the water's edge, their silhouettes etched against the shimmering backdrop of the sea. One woman holds a large, glistening fish, a centerpiece that anchors the narrative, while her companion gazes upon the catch with an expression of keen interest. This focal point captures more than just a transaction; it encapsulates the timeless ritual of the harvest and the shared vitality of coastal life.

    The artist’s technique breathes movement into the stillness of the scene. Through a masterful use of color, Gunawan employs a palette that is both lively and vibrant, mirroring the spirited atmosphere of a bustling marketplace. The scattered fish, resting near the shore and drifting closer to the water, act as rhythmic punctuation marks across the foreground, guiding the eye through the depth of the painting. There is a palpable sense of texture in the way light interacts with the wet surfaces of the catch and the damp sand, creating a sensory experience that allows the observer to almost hear the gentle lapping of waves and the spirited murmurs of the bargainers.

    Symbolism and the Art of Connection

    Beyond its surface beauty, Fish Bargaining carries deep symbolic weight, touching upon themes of sustenance, community, and the delicate balance between humanity and nature. The act of bargaining is a metaphor for the negotiations we perform daily within our social structures—the seeking of value, the establishment of trust, and the communal recognition of shared resources. The fish themselves represent the bounty of the earth, a gift from the ocean that necessitates cooperation and dialogue. Gunawan, whose background as an illusionist and inventor suggests a profound understanding of spectacle and hidden layers, imbues this seemingly straightforward scene with a sense of magic, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary through the lens of focused human attention.

    For the discerning collector or interior designer, this piece offers a sophisticated infusion of warmth and narrative depth. It is an artwork that does not merely occupy space but commands it, providing a focal point that invites contemplation and conversation. The painting’s ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia for simpler, more connected ways of living makes it an ideal acquisition for those looking to add a soulful, energetic element to a curated collection or a refined living environment. As a high-quality reproduction, it brings the luminous spirit of Indonesian coastal life into any setting, promising to inspire awe and emotional resonance for years to come.

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Hendra Aprida Gunawan

    Born in Jakarta, Indonesia

    early life and magical beginnings

    hendra aprida gunawan, an indonesian magician, also known as hendramagic, has been a member of the society of indonesian magicians since his early days. born in 1982, hendra developed his magical prowess in jakarta, which eventually led to a career-defining collaboration with alford the magician, indonesia's top illusionist.

    the artistic journey

    after performing three days of magic shows with alford, hendra resolved to make a career in the profession.

    he studied under mr. lee, uncle tan, and dui montero, further honing his skills.

    gradually, he began performing in his local church, eventually receiving bookings for shows at malls, hotels, and corporate events.

    innovative magic boxes and artistic expression

    aside from performing, hendra is also an inventor of innovative magic boxes, which have received orders from as far away as the united states and serbia. this unique blend of magic and art showcases his versatility.

    notable mentions and exhibitions

    hendra aprida gunawan's work has been featured in various exhibitions, including a notable retrospective at ciputra artpreneur gallery and museum in jakarta.

    his style, which evolved after meeting nuraeni, an art student at the prison, is a testament to his adaptability and growth as an artist.

    online presence and artistic legacy

    hendra aprida gunawan's work can be found on AllPaintingsStore.com, where his 55 artworks are showcased, including oil on canvas pieces.

    his wikipedia page (hendra gunawan (magician)) provides a comprehensive overview of his life and career.

    conclusion

    hendra aprida gunawan's enigmatic blend of magic and art has solidified his position as a unique figure in the indonesian art scene. through his innovative approach, he continues to inspire and intrigue audiences worldwide.

    view hendra aprida gunawan's artwork on AllPaintingsStore.com

    explore his magical journey and artistic evolution on his wikipedia page

    Museum

    Ciputra Artpreneur Museum

    On show in Jakarta, Indonesia

    A Sanctuary of Soul and Spectrum

    In the bustling heart of Jakarta, where the urban rhythm of Kuningan meets a profound stillness of creative spirit, lies the

    Ciputra Artpreneur Museum

    . It is not merely a repository for canvas and pigment but a vibrant tapestry of Indonesian identity, woven with the threads of visionary philanthropy and an unyielding passion for the arts. Established from the personal collection of the late Dr. (HC) Ir. Ciputra, this institution serves as a luminous beacon for those seeking to understand the pulse of modern Indonesian art. To step into its galleries is to leave the frantic pace of the metropolis behind and enter a space where history, folklore, and contemporary innovation breathe in unison.

    The museum’s beating heart is undeniably found within its unparalleled dedication to the oeuvre of

    Hendra Gunawan

    . As one of Indonesia's most celebrated masters, Gunawan’s presence permeates the halls with an almost visceral energy. The collection, featuring

    32 paintings and 18 sketches

    , offers an intimate, sweeping journey through his unique artistic vision. His canvases are a masterclass in color and form; they pulsate with vibrant, saturated hues and intricate textures that seem to dance before the viewer's eyes. Through his brush, Javanese folklore and spiritual narratives are brought to life, capturing the very essence of Indonesian life—from the rhythmic movements of traditional dancers to the quiet dignity of rural landscapes.

    Architectural Harmony and Interdisciplinary Brilliance

    The architecture of the Ciputra Artpreneur itself mirrors a perfect harmony between purpose and beauty. Integrated seamlessly into the prestigious

    Ciputra World Jakarta

    complex, the building stands as a triumph of contemporary design. Its soaring galleries and state-of-the-art theater space are designed to maximize both accessibility and aesthetic impact. The structure’s facade, a sophisticated blend of modern architectural principles and natural materials, creates a seamless transition from the surrounding urban landscape into an interior world of wonder. For the interior designer seeking inspiration, the museum provides a limitless palette where heritage meets modernity.

    What truly distinguishes Ciputra Artpreneur is its role as an interdisciplinary crossroads, where the quiet reverence of a gallery meets the electric anticipation of a concert hall. The venue functions as a multi-arts center that fosters a unique environment of collaboration and discovery through various offerings:

    The International Standard Theater:

    A 1,141-seat stage that has hosted world-class productions such as

    Beauty and the Beast

    ,

    Annie

    , and

    Shrek

    , alongside local theatrical triumphs.

    The Multi-function Gallery:

    A white-box space capable of accommodating up to 2,000 guests, serving as a prestigious venue for high-profile exhibitions like the

    UOB Painting of the Year

    and grand fashion shows.

    A Cultural Epicenter:

    A space where the dialogue between the past and the present is constantly renewed, hosting everything from classical concerts to contemporary art showcases.

    Whether through the cerebral complexities of abstract compositions or the evocative power of figurative representations, the museum unfolds as a kaleidoscope of diverse artistic voices. It remains an enduring monument to the transformative power of creativity, inviting every visitor to explore the profound evolution of Indonesia's modern soul.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Fish Bargaining

    topimpressionists.com/en/art/download/hendra-aprida-gunawan-fish-bargaining-D4QVDL-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Gunawan, Hendra Aprida. Fish Bargaining. 1982, Ciputra Artpreneur Museum. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/hendra-aprida-gunawan-fish-bargaining-D4QVDL-en/
    APA
    Gunawan, Hendra Aprida (1982). Fish Bargaining [Painting]. Ciputra Artpreneur Museum. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/hendra-aprida-gunawan-fish-bargaining-D4QVDL-en/
    Chicago
    Hendra Aprida Gunawan. Fish Bargaining. 1982. Ciputra Artpreneur Museum. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/hendra-aprida-gunawan-fish-bargaining-D4QVDL-en/
    Harvard
    Gunawan, Hendra Aprida (1982) Fish Bargaining. Ciputra Artpreneur Museum. Available at: https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/hendra-aprida-gunawan-fish-bargaining-D4QVDL-en/

    Look closely

    Fish Bargaining — Hendra Aprida Gunawan

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: fish bargaining, beach scene, people. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at Catching a Butterfly (1980), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Themes that come back through the work of Hendra Aprida Gunawan: indonesian coastal life, daily market interactions, vibrant social scenes. Which of them do you see here?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Questions & Answers

    From which era does "Fish Bargaining" date?

    The historical period of "Fish Bargaining" by Hendra Aprida Gunawan is Contemporary. This classification situates the work in art history.

    What mood and emotion does "Fish Bargaining" by Hendra Aprida Gunawan express?

    "Fish Bargaining" by Hendra Aprida Gunawan conveys a joyful feeling within an overall playful mood.

    Can I see an X-ray view of "Fish Bargaining" by Hendra Aprida Gunawan?

    The X-Ray view of "Fish Bargaining" by Hendra Aprida Gunawan is on the artwork's X-Ray page: an interactive examination of the image through eleven optical layers.