All that is set in stone

Balinese sculptures

For an art buff ready to explore, the possibilities of delightful discoveries are plenty in Ubud, famed as the cultural capital of Bali in Indonesia. Stone carving is a significant traditional art form for the Balinese. With its origin in Hindu-Javanese art, all kinds of sculptures ranging from Hindu deities to demons are found in Ubud.

The hamlet of Batubulan, located in the midst of Denpasar and Ubud, is the hub of stone carving. Almost every Balinese home is done up with sculptures at the entrance that mostly depict demons. There was a time when the stone carvers of Ubud would create works to embellish temples and palace getaways. While strolling on the streets of Ubud, I came across a wide array of sculptures that have been skillfully carved from sandstones and appear quite heavy. Balinese sculptors use soft black volcanic rocks and white palimanan soft stone for carving.

The tradition of stone carving in Bali dates back to the times of the Majapahit dynasty, the largest kingdom that ruled Southeast Asia, and it was the Hindu empire that ruled over Java and established stronghold in Bali way back in 14th century.

Be it Buddha, Ganesha, Garuda, Shiva, giant frogs, monkeys, demons and other Hindu gods, one can find them all in Ubud. Another interesting piece of stone work is the human palm. Price-conscious tourists can go for a good bargain, and get sculptures at a wallet-friendly price.

While walking down the Ubud countryside, I marvel at a wide collection of stone carvings that are on display on the narrow paths in the midst of lush paddy fields. These stone sculptures are cheaper in the interiors of Ubud. In the downtown area of Ubud in Subak Sok Wayah around 20 minutes away, there are restaurants dishing up organic food for travellers and the name of the food outlet is also carved and painted on stone.