Kendai Kebun Forum in Yogyakarta

Art and food are never far apart, more so in Kendai Kebun Forum. Walk down tree laden JL Tirtodipuran past sculptures and paintings and you will find the unique space Kendai Kebun Forum A fusion of a restaurant, art gallery and performance space.

The space is independently managed by artists.  At the heart of the Forum is the alternative space it provides for artists which are financed through the restaurant.

Street art T-shirts and a display piece. Photo by Diana O’Gilvie

When I entered the yard, the first thing I noticed was the gallery to the left. Unfortunately, it was closed because that were installing the My Little Monster exhibit. Disappointed, but not undaunted, I walked into the restaurant where art was displayed on the walls.  At the back of the restaurant, there were T-shirts printed with street art and a small bookstore.

Photo by: Diana O’Gilvie

The highlight for me was climbing up the winding staircase past a mural of Yogyakarta’s famous artists. The Blues Brothers painted the mural recently, in May.  The style is reticent of Yogyakarta street art.

Artists caricatures by the Blues Brothers. Photo by: Diana O’Gilvie

I settled around a table on the second level and enjoyed the cool cross winds. I had no further plans until later that night. I sipped on a fresh mango juice and listened to the sounds of chisels meeting stones as sculptors worked in the yard next door.

Upstairs is very relaxing. Photo by: Diana O’Gilvie

Kendai Kebun Forum
JL Tirtodipuran No. 3
Yogyakarta 55143

Telephone: 274 376 114

Open 11am-11pm (closed on Tuesdays)