From Chinatown With Love, Oliver Wihardja Brings Heritage and Community to Art Jakarta
JAKARTA-JAYA NEWS.COM—In his fourth solo exhibition, “From Chinatown With Love,” it will be held at JIEXPO Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, from October 3 (Friday) to October 5, 2025 (Sunday).
23-year-old artist Oliver Wihardja (familiarly known as Ollie-ref) invites us to delve into the heart and soul of Chinatown through a series of paintings.
“All of this is inspired by Jakarta, Semarang, and Singapore,” he said.
“From Chinatown With Love” was born from Oliver’s personal experiences and his roots in family traditions.
Growing up in a Chinese family, he was familiar with Chinese New Year celebrations, making shui jiao, enjoying dim sum for breakfast, eating mooncakes, and visiting relatives in Semarang.
His close relationship with Semarang’s Chinatown—where his uncle, Harjanto Halim, led the Boen Hian Tong Social Association—was a key source of inspiration for this collection.
This exhibition captures the rhythms of Southeast Asia’s diverse Chinatowns: from the tranquil charm of Semarang with its nine historic Chinese temples, to the bustling streets of Telok Ayer and Pagoda Street in Singapore.
To the bustling Glodok district in Jakarta with its markets, culinary delights, and centuries-old houses of worship.
Through each of his works, Oliver depicts not only the physical space, but also the life that pulsates within it—children playing in alleys, barbers engaging with their customers, and artisans preserving traditions passed down through generations.
Part of Therapy
Diagnosed with autism at the age of 3.5, Oliver began painting at age 6 as part of therapy.
What began as a means of self-expression evolved into his passion and calling.
In 2017, at the age of 16, he achieved international recognition by winning first prize at the ANCA World Autism Festival in Vancouver, a milestone in his artistic journey.
Since his debut solo exhibition, “Walk With Me” (2022), Oliver has received various commissions from UNIQLO Indonesia, Blessed Sacrament Church, and Mount Alvernia Hospital in Singapore.
His works are now part of institutional collections such as Mayapada Hospital in Surabaya and St. Mary the Virgin Church, as well as various private collections. *
“From Chinatown With Love” marks his second appearance at Art Jakarta, affirming his position as a young artist with a unique artistic approach.
Interestingly, Oliver’s works in this exhibition also received appreciation from various important figures. Two of them were Veronica Tan, Deputy Minister of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection, and Irene Umar, Deputy Minister of Creative Economy, who visited Oliver’s exhibition booth at Art Jakarta.
Both figures expressed their support and appreciation for Oliver’s passion, perseverance, and contribution to promoting inclusivity and cultural diversity through art.
Their presence is a tangible recognition of the extraordinary potential of young autistic Indonesian artists on the national art scene.
Beyond the world of art, Oliver also places a strong emphasis on social activities. In keeping with the spirit of sharing, a portion of the proceeds from this exhibition will be donated to the Boen Hian Tong Social Association, which plays a role in preserving the history and cultural heritage of Semarang’s Chinatown.
Through his brushstrokes, Oliver invites visitors to experience the colors, textures, pulse, and traditions of Chinatown—while celebrating its resilience, sustainability, and warmth.
A heartfelt tribute to the heritage, community, and spaces that continue to keep identity alive. (***)
Contributor: Lasman Simanjuntak
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