"I was the youngest of four siblings, born into a middle class family in West Sumatra. My friends tell me that sometimes I can be a cynical person, but they are also keen on my friendliness...
Read Full Story
Close WindowTineke Indradjaya
"I was the youngest of four siblings, born into a middle class family in West Sumatra. My friends tell me that sometimes I can be a cynical person, but they are also keen on my friendliness and how smart I am. I had a hard time when I lost my job, right after I had spent my savings to buy a car and repair it.
"After high school, I left moved to Jakarta to pursue my studies. At that time, I started to know myself better and discover more about myself. I began traveling around Indonesia and got acquainted with the local cultures. Apart from enjoying nature, I do enjoy culture. I speak several dialects and languages. This ability is a benefit for me for expanding my horizons about my own cultures and others.
I wrote stories when I was living in West Sumatra and Jakarta, Then I decided to leave the metropolitan area and move to Bali. I always liked the arts and Bali made me become more expressive.
"Here I discovered even more about myself, and my love and passion for animals surfaced. I got a pet dog for the first time in my entire life. One of my dogs had five cute puppies.
I also discovered a love for art. I felt something made me draw and I executed these designs in silver, because I have a bit of an allergy to gold. My first three pieces were created in one week's time.
"With my professional background in design development for jewelry and also in management, I set up a workshop.
"I learned a lot from the silversmiths who collaborate with me. I spent a lot of time with them, discussed each design and studied their work carefully.
"I enjoy making new designs – the creative process is the nicest part for me. I love it. Making certain the quality is perfect is my biggest challenge.
"I use natural materials such as silver, copper, gemstones and coconut shell. I want to preserve my traditional sense of art, and reveal what Sumatra has to the world.
"Today, both my dogs and art are inseparable from my life."