“We hope that through this exhibition history will not repeat itself. Libra Libre reminds us to preserve the integrity of this diverse republic,” said Oscar.
For example, a cartoon depicting many people piling up and hitting each other, echoes the snippet of lyrics from the national anthem Satu Nusa Satu Bangsa. This work is considered relevant because it alludes to Indonesia being prone to divisions. The riots that occurred in this country were the work of irresponsible parties who spread various political, social and economic misinformation.
There is also a cartoon in which a photojournalist is depicted screaming with relief because the press is free from the post-New Order “clampdown,” but another photojournalist responds to the fate of being a journalist who are still in fear of being murdered or the place they work for being shut down.
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Moreover, Indonesia will have an election next year. Some of Rahmat’s cartoons which depict general elections in the Reformasi era seem like a a tunnel of time that bring the viewers to reflect on the anxiety stemming from potential political problems or conflicts. (Aini Tartinia)