Fika Ria Santika

(b. 1987, West Sumatra, Indonesia)  

Nature has long been an inexhaustible source of inspiration for Fika Ria Santika, shaping both her artistic practice and personal philosophy. Raised in the Minangkabau culture—a society that weaves the philosophies of nature into its way of life—Santika has always been drawn to the proverb Alam Takambang Jadi Guru (“Nature is an eternal teacher”). While deeply familiar to most Minangkabau people, this saying left her questioning its relevance among today’s younger generation. This curiosity became more pronounced when she left her hometown, prompting her to explore the essence of Minangkabau identity—an essence that shaped her but became more elusive as she encountered other cultures.

Through her study of nature, Santika has observed cycles, growth, layers, transitions, and uncertainties—qualities that have profoundly influenced her artistic language. These themes materialise in her ongoing series Tumpuk Lapis Tampak Isi (Stacked Layers, Visible Borders), which explores the layered visual construction of the morning landscape, veiled in mist and fog. For Santika, this fleeting scene serves as a metaphor for her search for Minangkabau identity. Her creative process mirrors this layered experience, unfolding through different phases of discovery—each resembling a sedimented imprint of her interactions with nature.

Since 2016, Tumpuk Lapis Tampak Isi has remained central to her artistic practice, evolving as a continuous process of research and introspection. Santika’s recent exhibitions include Cut on the Bias and Axis: Poros at Gajah Gallery Yogyakarta, Beyond Borders (Group Exhibition at Gajah Gallery Yogyakarta), and TWENTYFIVE (Group Exhibition at Gajah Gallery Singapore).

Santika currently lives and works in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.