Location:
Situated in Denpasar, the capital of Bali, ISI Denpasar benefits from its proximity to the island’s rich artistic and cultural environment. Bali is globally renowned for its traditional arts, such as dance, music, painting, sculpture, and its deep connection to Hindu-Balinese rituals and ceremonies.
Academic Focus:
ISI Denpasar offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields of art, including:
Performing Arts: Traditional Balinese dance, theater, and gamelan music.
Visual Arts: Painting, sculpture, and crafts.
Design and Media Arts: Graphic design, interior design, photography, and film.
Literature and Arts Education: Programs focusing on art criticism, history, and pedagogy.
Traditional and Contemporary Arts:
While the institute places a strong emphasis on preserving Bali’s traditional arts and cultural expressions, it also encourages contemporary and experimental approaches. Students are encouraged to innovate and merge traditional techniques with modern artistic practices, reflecting Indonesia’s evolving art scene.
Cultural and International Significance:
ISI Denpasar is a key institution in the study and promotion of Balinese arts, which are an integral part of Indonesia's cultural identity. It plays a significant role in not only educating local students but also attracting international students, researchers, and artists interested in learning about or contributing to Balinese and Indonesian art forms.
The institute often collaborates with international art communities, hosting exchanges, exhibitions, and performances that foster cross-cultural artistic dialogue.
Facilities and Resources:
The campus offers various specialized facilities, including studios for visual arts, rehearsal spaces for performing arts, galleries, theaters, and a library. These resources provide students with an environment conducive to artistic creation and research.
Community and Festivals:
The institute is deeply integrated into the local cultural scene, participating in and organizing various festivals, performances, and exhibitions. Students and faculty often engage with the broader community through public performances, exhibitions, and outreach programs that reinforce Bali's role as a center for the arts.
Research and Development:
ISI Denpasar places a strong emphasis on research, particularly in traditional art forms like gamelan, Balinese dance, and cultural studies. The institute is also involved in the preservation and documentation of endangered art forms and traditions, contributing to the academic and practical knowledge of Indonesia's cultural heritage.
Faculty of Performing Arts
Dance (Tari)
Focuses on traditional Balinese dance, modern dance, and choreography.
Theater Arts (Teater)
Covers traditional Indonesian theater forms like Wayang Wong and contemporary theater practices.
Music Arts (Karawitan)
Specializes in Balinese gamelan, traditional music, and modern musical compositions.
Puppetry Arts (Pedalangan)
Focuses on the traditional Indonesian puppet theater, particularly the Wayang Kulit.
Faculty of Fine Arts and Design
Fine Arts (Seni Murni)
Focuses on painting, sculpture, and mixed-media arts, blending traditional and contemporary techniques.
Crafts (Kriya Seni)
Covers traditional Balinese crafts like wood carving, stone sculpture, textile arts (weaving, batik), and ceramics.
Design (Desain)
Includes graphic design, visual communication design, and interior design with a focus on cultural relevance and innovation.
Photography (Fotografi)
Focuses on both artistic and commercial photography, including digital photography techniques and visual storytelling.
Faculty of Recording Arts (Fakultas Seni Rupa dan Desain)
Film and Television (Film dan Televisi)
Provides education in filmmaking, directing, screenwriting, and production, emphasizing local cultural content and global media trends.
Animation (Animasi)
Focuses on the development of both 2D and 3D animation, integrating cultural themes into digital storytelling.
Master of Performing Arts (Magister Seni Pertunjukan)
This program allows students to deepen their expertise in traditional and modern performing arts, including research, performance, and choreography in dance, music, and theater.
Master of Arts Education (Magister Pendidikan Seni)
Designed for individuals seeking to teach the arts or engage in arts education research. This program emphasizes pedagogy, curriculum development, and the role of arts in education.
Master of Fine Arts (Magister Seni Rupa)
Focuses on advanced studies in fine arts, including visual arts research, critical theory, and the development of personal artistic practice.
Most undergraduate programs at ISI Denpasar typically last 4 years (8 semesters). Postgraduate programs typically take around 2-3 years to complete, depending on the student's pace and research.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (USD/year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Faculty of Performing Arts |
|
|
|
Dance (Tari) |
4 years |
$1,000 - $1,500 |
|
Theater Arts (Teater) |
4 years |
$1,000 - $1,500 |
|
Music Arts (Karawitan) |
4 years |
$1,000 - $1,500 |
|
Puppetry Arts (Pedalangan) |
4 years |
$1,000 - $1,500 |
|
Faculty of Fine Arts and Design |
|
|
|
Fine Arts (Seni Murni) |
4 years |
$1,000 - $1,500 |
|
Crafts (Kriya Seni) |
4 years |
$1,000 - $1,500 |
|
Design (Desain) |
4 years |
$1,200 - $1,800 |
|
Photography (Fotografi) |
4 years |
$1,200 - $1,800 |
|
Faculty of Recording Arts |
|
|
|
Film and Television (Film dan Televisi) |
4 years |
$1,200 - $1,800 |
|
Animation (Animasi) |
4 years |
$1,200 - $1,800 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (USD/year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Performing Arts |
2 years |
$1,500 - $2,000 |
|
Master of Fine Arts |
2 years |
$1,500 - $2,000 |
|
Master of Arts Education |
2 years |
$1,500 - $2,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (USD/year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctorate in Performing Arts |
3-4 years |
$2,000 - $2,500 |
|
Doctorate in Fine Arts |
3-4 years |
$2,000 - $2,500 |
|
Doctorate in Arts Education |
3-4 years |
$2,000 - $2,500 |
Rich Cultural Heritage:
ISI Denpasar is located in Bali, a world-renowned center for traditional and modern arts. The island’s deep connection to music, dance, sculpture, and painting provides international students with a unique opportunity to study in a living cultural context.
Students can explore traditional Balinese art forms such as gamelan music, dance (Tari), puppetry (Wayang), and crafts, while also engaging in contemporary creative practices.
Diverse Course Offerings:
International students can choose from undergraduate, master's, and doctorate programs across a wide variety of artistic disciplines including:
Performing Arts (Dance, Music, Theater)
Visual Arts (Painting, Sculpture, Photography)
Design and Media Arts (Graphic Design, Animation, Film & Television)
Arts Education and Research in the cultural and artistic sectors.
Cultural Immersion:
Studying in Bali offers an immersive experience where students can engage with local artisans, attend festivals, and witness traditional rituals and ceremonies that are often tied to artistic expression.
The environment encourages international students to gain firsthand experience in Indonesian art forms while also pursuing their own artistic practices.
International Collaboration:
ISI Denpasar has a history of collaborating with international universities and art institutions, allowing for student exchanges, joint projects, and cross-cultural dialogue.
International students often participate in exhibitions, performances, and festivals that promote global artistic connections.
Affordable Tuition and Living Costs:
Compared to many Western institutions, tuition fees at ISI Denpasar are relatively affordable. Bali also offers a lower cost of living, making it a more economical choice for international students seeking a high-quality education in the arts.
Research Opportunities:
ISI Denpasar emphasizes research, particularly in the fields of traditional arts preservation, cultural studies, and art innovation. International students with an interest in research can pursue projects related to Indonesian arts or comparative cultural studies.
Research Programs and Requirements:
Visit ISI Denpasar's official website or contact their admissions office to get detailed information about available programs, eligibility criteria, tuition fees, and other important details.
Select the program you wish to apply for, whether at the undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral level.
Prepare the Required Documents:
Depending on the program, you will need to gather the necessary documents. These typically include:
Completed application form (available on the university's website).
Academic transcripts (certified copies of previous academic qualifications, such as high school diploma, bachelor’s degree, or master’s degree).
Portfolio or audition video (for fine arts or performing arts programs).
Statement of Purpose or motivation letter (explaining why you want to study at ISI Denpasar and your future goals).
Letters of Recommendation (usually from teachers or professionals in the arts field, more common for master’s or PhD applicants).
Proof of language proficiency (if applicable, such as Bahasa Indonesia or English language tests).
Copy of passport.
Recent passport-size photographs.
Language Requirements:
Most courses at ISI Denpasar are conducted in Bahasa Indonesia, so international students may be required to demonstrate proficiency in the language.
Some programs may require students to take preparatory language courses, and international students are encouraged to learn the basics of Bahasa Indonesia to help with their studies and daily interactions.
In some cases, if you are applying for a graduate-level program, there may be courses or thesis work that can be done in English, so check with the department about language flexibility.
Submit the Application:
Submit the application online or by mail to ISI Denpasar's admissions office. Ensure you follow the instructions given by the university for submitting the documents, and make sure you meet the deadlines for application.
Application deadlines usually depend on the academic calendar, so it's important to check the official website for specific dates.
Entrance Examination or Audition (if applicable):
Depending on the program, especially in performing arts or fine arts, applicants may be required to:
Attend an audition for programs like dance, theater, music, or puppetry (this could be done online if you are overseas).
Submit a portfolio showcasing your previous artistic works (for programs in fine arts, design, or photography).
Graduate programs (Master’s or PhD) may require interviews or presentations of your proposed research.
Application Review and Interview (if applicable):
The admissions committee will review your academic qualifications, portfolio, and entrance exam or audition results.
Some programs, especially at the graduate level, might require an interview (conducted either in-person or online for international applicants) to assess your research interests and fit for the program.
Admission Decision:
After reviewing your application, ISI Denpasar will notify you of their admission decision via email or mail.
If accepted, you will receive an admission letter with details on how to proceed, including tuition fee payment, registration deadlines, and other next steps.
Acceptance and Payment of Fees:
Once you receive your admission offer, you will need to confirm your acceptance by paying the initial tuition fees or registration fees by the given deadline.
The university will provide you with details about the amount to be paid and the payment process (usually via bank transfer).
Student Visa Application (for International Students):
After you have been accepted and paid the initial fees, you can apply for a student visa (Visa Belajar) through the nearest Indonesian Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
Required documents for the visa typically include:
A copy of your admission letter from ISI Denpasar.
Proof of financial means to support yourself during your studies.
A valid passport (with at least six months validity).
Passport-sized photos.
Health insurance details (if required).
Upon arrival in Indonesia, you will also need to apply for a KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit) through the immigration office.
Arrival and Orientation:
Once your visa is approved, you can make arrangements to travel to Denpasar, Bali, and begin your studies at ISI Denpasar.
The university may hold an orientation program for new students to help them adjust to academic life and the local culture.
You may also need to complete any remaining registration or administrative steps upon arrival, such as providing physical copies of documents, setting up student ID cards, and registering for classes.
High School Diploma or equivalent qualification.
Academic Transcripts from high school (translated into Indonesian or English if needed).
Portfolio or Audition: Required for arts and performing arts programs (depending on the field of study).
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Bahasa Indonesia (or willingness to take language preparatory courses).
Bachelor’s Degree in a related field.
Academic Transcripts from the bachelor’s program (translated if necessary).
Portfolio or audition for performing and fine arts programs.
Statement of Purpose detailing your academic and artistic goals.
Letters of Recommendation (if required).
Research Proposal (for thesis-based programs).
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Bahasa Indonesia or English (depending on program).
Master’s Degree in a related field.
Academic Transcripts from the master’s program.
Research Proposal outlining your intended research topic.
Letters of Recommendation from previous academic supervisors or professionals.
Portfolio (for arts-based doctoral programs).
Interview (typically required for PhD candidates).
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Bahasa Indonesia or English.
Application deadlines vary depending on the intake period. Some programs have rolling admissions, while others have specific deadlines tied to the academic year. For international students, it’s essential to apply well in advance to allow time for visa processing.
ISI Denpasar generally follows the Indonesian academic calendar, which starts in the second half of the year. While there may be variations depending on the program or faculty, the following intake periods are typical:
Main Intake:
August/September: This is the primary intake for most programs at ISI Denpasar, including undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees. The application process typically begins several months in advance, around February to May.
Secondary Intake (for certain programs, if applicable):
January/February: Some programs may offer an additional intake, especially at the postgraduate level. This intake allows students who missed the main application window to apply and begin their studies in the first quarter of the following year.
For international students, it's essential to apply early, considering the extra time required for visa processing and travel arrangements.
General Eligibility:
High School Diploma: Applicants must have completed secondary education (high school or its equivalent). International students need to provide certified translations of their diplomas and transcripts if not in Bahasa Indonesia or English.
Academic Transcripts: Academic records must show successful completion of the required pre-university education level.
Minimum Grades: While grade requirements can vary depending on the program, a strong academic record is usually necessary.
Additional Requirements:
Portfolio or Audition (depending on the program): For arts-based programs such as Fine Arts, Dance, Music, and Theater, students may need to submit a portfolio of their previous work or participate in an audition.
Fine Arts: Applicants must submit a portfolio showcasing their skills in painting, sculpture, photography, or design.
Performing Arts: Applicants for programs like Dance or Music (gamelan, traditional music) may need to submit audition tapes or attend in-person auditions.
Language Proficiency:
Courses at ISI Denpasar are primarily taught in Bahasa Indonesia. International students must demonstrate proficiency in the language.
If you do not have adequate Bahasa Indonesia skills, the university may require you to take language preparation courses.
For programs offering coursework or thesis options in English, students may need to prove English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.).
Age Requirement:
Typically, applicants should be at least 17 years old or older at the time of application.
General Eligibility:
Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must hold an undergraduate (S1) degree from a recognized university in a relevant field of study.
Academic Transcripts: A strong academic record during undergraduate studies is required.
Minimum GPA: A GPA of 2.75 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) is typically required, though some programs may have higher requirements.
Additional Requirements:
Portfolio or Audition (depending on the program): Similar to undergraduate programs, applicants for Master of Fine Arts or Master of Performing Arts programs may need to submit a portfolio or participate in an audition.
Research Proposal (for research-based master’s programs): Applicants may be asked to submit a proposal outlining their intended research area.
Statement of Purpose: A letter explaining the applicant’s motivation, career goals, and reasons for choosing ISI Denpasar.
Letters of Recommendation: Two or more letters of recommendation may be required from academic or professional references.
Language Proficiency:
Bahasa Indonesia Proficiency: Non-Indonesian speakers may need to demonstrate proficiency in the language or commit to taking preparatory language courses.
For some programs, English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS scores) may be required if courses or research are conducted in English.
General Eligibility:
Master’s Degree: Applicants must hold a master’s degree (S2) in a relevant field of study from a recognized university.
Academic Transcripts: A strong academic record during both bachelor’s and master’s studies is required.
Minimum GPA: A GPA of 3.00 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) is usually required.
Additional Requirements:
Research Proposal: Doctoral applicants must submit a detailed research proposal outlining their intended dissertation topic and research objectives.
Portfolio (for arts-based programs): Similar to the undergraduate and master’s programs, PhD candidates in Fine Arts or Performing Arts may need to provide a portfolio of their previous artistic work or participate in an audition.
Statement of Purpose: A written explanation of the applicant’s academic and artistic goals and reasons for pursuing a PhD at ISI Denpasar.
Letters of Recommendation: Two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
Language Proficiency:
Bahasa Indonesia Proficiency: Doctoral programs are usually conducted in Bahasa Indonesia, so proficiency in the language is often required.
English Proficiency: Some doctoral research may be conducted in English, in which case proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) may be necessary.
Interview:
PhD applicants may be required to attend an interview with faculty members to assess their research proposal and suitability for the program. This can often be conducted online for international applicants.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Level of Study |
Coverage |
Application Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Bidikmisi Scholarship |
Indonesian students from low-income families with excellent academic records |
Undergraduate |
Tuition fees, living expenses, and books |
Annually (start of academic year) |
|
PPA (Peningkatan Prestasi Akademik) |
Indonesian students with high academic performance |
Undergraduate |
Monthly stipend for living expenses |
Annually (varies by year) |
|
Darmasiswa Scholarship |
International students interested in learning Indonesian arts and culture |
Non-degree (1 year) |
Tuition fees, monthly stipend, no airfares |
Annually (Feb-Apr) |
|
LPDP Scholarship |
Indonesian and international students, primarily for graduate-level study |
Master’s, PhD |
Tuition fees, living expenses, research funding, travel |
Annually (multiple intakes) |
|
ISI Denpasar Arts Talent Scholarship |
International and local students with exceptional artistic talent |
Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD |
Partial to full tuition fee coverage |
Annually (depends on intake period) |
|
Research and Innovation Scholarship |
Master’s and PhD students involved in research related to Indonesian arts and culture |
Master’s, PhD |
Research funding, tuition fees |
Annually (depends on research timeline) |
|
Cultural Exchange Programs |
International students from partner universities |
Non-degree (1 semester to 1 year) |
Tuition fee waiver, cultural immersion |
Depends on exchange agreements |
Facility Type |
Description |
Cost (USD/month) |
Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Dormitories |
Basic student dormitory with shared rooms, communal bathrooms, and common areas |
$50 - $100 |
Affordable, limited availability, basic amenities such as bed, desk, and wardrobe |
|
Off-Campus Guesthouses (Kost) |
Private or shared rooms in nearby guesthouses with basic amenities |
$100 - $250 |
Typically includes bed, desk, wardrobe, and sometimes air conditioning; utilities may be extra |
|
Private Apartments |
Independent living in small studios or 1-bedroom apartments near campus |
$200 - $400 |
Includes private bathroom, kitchen, air conditioning, and utilities (sometimes included) |
|
Shared Apartments |
Apartments shared with other students, often with separate bedrooms but shared living spaces |
$150 - $300 |
More affordable than private apartments; utilities may be shared among tenants |
|
Homestay with Local Families |
Stay with Balinese families, providing an immersive cultural experience |
$150 - $300 (includes meals) |
Provides meals (usually breakfast and dinner); great for cultural immersion and language learning |
|
International Student Housing (Off-Campus) |
Specialized accommodations designed for international students, offering modern facilities like Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and security |
$200 - $350 |
Includes utilities, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and sometimes meal plans |
Cultural and Artistic Focus
Traditional and Contemporary Arts: ISI Denpasar provides a hands-on learning environment that allows students to study and practice a wide range of artistic disciplines, from traditional Balinese arts (like dance, gamelan music, and wayang puppetry) to contemporary arts (painting, sculpture, photography, design, film, and animation).
Collaborative Learning: Students often collaborate on projects, performances, and exhibitions, creating a dynamic community of artists who learn from each other.
Workshops and Masterclasses: The institute frequently organizes workshops, seminars, and masterclasses with visiting local and international artists, giving students exposure to diverse artistic perspectives and techniques.
Exhibitions and Performances: Students have opportunities to showcase their work through regular exhibitions, performances, and festivals both on-campus and at external venues. These events help students gain professional experience while building a portfolio or performance history.
Access to Studios and Resources
Studios and Rehearsal Spaces: ISI Denpasar provides specialized spaces for various artistic practices, including painting studios, rehearsal spaces for traditional Balinese dance, music studios for gamelan orchestras, and theater stages for performing arts students.
Library and Research Facilities: The institute’s library offers a rich collection of books, journals, and digital resources focusing on arts, culture, and history. It’s a great resource for students doing research or seeking artistic inspiration.
Student Organizations and Clubs
Art and Cultural Clubs: ISI Denpasar hosts various student-run organizations and clubs focusing on different aspects of art and culture. These clubs organize performances, exhibitions, and workshops, allowing students to actively participate in extra-curricular activities outside of the classroom.
Performance Troupes: Students can join performance groups for dance, music (gamelan orchestras), and theater. These groups often perform at campus events and local cultural festivals, providing a great platform for students to refine their skills.
Film and Animation Clubs: Film students and those interested in media arts can join film clubs, where they collaborate on short films, animations, or documentaries. Students often organize film screenings and discussions, giving everyone a chance to learn about global cinema.
Sports and Fitness Clubs: While the primary focus at ISI Denpasar is the arts, students also engage in sports activities like basketball, football, and traditional martial arts, helping them maintain a balanced lifestyle.
Cultural Events and Festivals
Bali Arts Festival: ISI Denpasar is closely linked with the Bali Arts Festival, which takes place annually in Denpasar and showcases traditional and modern Balinese arts. Students often get the opportunity to participate in this large-scale event, performing or exhibiting their work.
Campus Festivals: The institute holds its own festivals and cultural events, where students from different disciplines come together to showcase their creativity. Events such as dance performances, art exhibitions, fashion shows, and music concerts are frequent occurrences on campus.
Local Ceremonies and Rituals: Since Bali is a deeply spiritual island, students often witness or participate in local Hindu-Balinese ceremonies, such as Galungan and Nyepi (the Balinese Day of Silence), which are integral to life on the island. These ceremonies influence the artistic expressions of many students.
Cultural Immersion: Living in Bali offers students countless opportunities for cultural immersion. Many students attend temple ceremonies, participate in Balinese dance and music performances, and experience firsthand the rituals and customs that influence the island’s rich artistic traditions.
Volunteer Opportunities: ISI Denpasar encourages students to engage with local communities through art-based outreach programs. Students may volunteer to teach art, music, or dance at local schools, or participate in community arts projects that celebrate and preserve traditional Balinese culture.
Orientation Program: ISI Denpasar organizes orientation programs for international students, helping them adjust to life in Bali and the academic environment of the institute. The orientation includes campus tours, cultural activities, and practical information about living in Denpasar.
Language Classes: Since many courses are conducted in Bahasa Indonesia, international students are encouraged to take language classes to help with their studies and daily life. The university may offer language support or recommend local language schools for beginners.
International Student Office: The student office provides support to international students in navigating administrative processes like visa applications, housing arrangements, and any academic concerns.
Affordable Cost of Living: Living in Bali is generally more affordable than many Western countries. Students can find affordable accommodation in Kost (guesthouses), shared apartments, or homestays with Balinese families. Food, transportation, and basic amenities are also budget-friendly.
Cultural Immersion: Living in Denpasar gives students a chance to explore Bali’s natural beauty (beaches, rice terraces, mountains) and cultural heritage (temples, art galleries, museums). Bali is also known for its healthy lifestyle with yoga centers, vegan cafes, and surf spots, making it an ideal place for students interested in a holistic lifestyle.
Weekend Trips: Students can easily explore nearby locations in Bali during weekends or breaks. Popular destinations like Ubud (a cultural hub), Uluwatu (beaches and surfing), and Mount Batur (hiking and sunrise views) are just a short drive away.
Students at ISI Denpasar have a variety of accommodation options:
On-Campus Dormitories: Affordable and convenient for students looking to live close to their classes. Dormitories typically have shared rooms and basic amenities.
Off-Campus Housing: Many students opt for Kost (guesthouses) or private apartments in the surrounding areas of Denpasar. These options provide more privacy and flexibility.
Homestays: Living with a Balinese family is a great option for international students seeking cultural immersion and language practice. Homestays often include meals and allow students to experience Balinese life firsthand.
Healthcare Facilities: ISI Denpasar provides basic health services on campus for minor health concerns. There are also clinics and hospitals in Denpasar for more specialized care. International students are advised to have health insurance during their stay in Indonesia.
Mental Health Support: The university offers counseling services to support students' mental and emotional well-being. This is particularly useful for international students adjusting to a new culture.
Yoga and Meditation: Bali is famous for its wellness retreats, and students have access to yoga studios and meditation centers throughout the island. Many students take advantage of these opportunities for relaxation and mindfulness.
Public Transportation: Public transportation in Bali is limited, but students often use local "bemo" minibuses, Gojek (ride-hailing), or motorbike taxis to get around Denpasar. Bicycles and scooters are also popular among students.
Scooter Rentals: Many students rent scooters to commute between campus and their accommodation or explore Bali. Scooter rental is affordable and widely available in Denpasar, but students should be cautious and ensure they have the proper driving license.
Internships and Practical Experience: ISI Denpasar emphasizes practical learning, offering students opportunities to intern with art galleries, performance groups, design firms, and media production companies in Bali. These internships provide valuable hands-on experience and help students build professional networks.
Career Services: The institute’s career services office helps students with career planning, job search strategies, and networking opportunities within the creative industries.
Campus Security: ISI Denpasar ensures a safe and secure campus environment, with security personnel and protocols in place to maintain student safety.
Living in Bali: Bali is generally considered a safe destination for students, with a friendly local community and low crime rates. However, as with any travel experience, students are encouraged to take standard safety precautions, especially when using transportation or traveling alone.
Internships: ISI Denpasar encourages students to pursue internships with art galleries, museums, performance groups, media production houses, and design firms. These internships offer practical industry experience, allowing students to apply their academic learning in real-world settings.
For example, students in performing arts might intern with local dance or theater troupes, while visual arts students may work in art galleries or studios.
Film and media students often intern at production companies, working on projects like documentaries, short films, or television shows.
Partnerships with Art and Cultural Organizations: ISI Denpasar has strong connections with Bali's cultural sector and local industries. The institute collaborates with local and international art festivals, exhibitions, and media productions, giving students the chance to work on professional projects during their studies.
For example, students often participate in the Bali Arts Festival and other prestigious events, where they can showcase their skills, make industry connections, and build their portfolios.
Throughout the academic year, ISI Denpasar hosts workshops and masterclasses led by professional artists, performers, and industry experts. These events provide students with insider knowledge, help them expand their skill sets, and offer networking opportunities.
Graduates from ISI Denpasar pursue various career paths depending on their field of study. Many find employment in Bali’s vibrant arts scene, while others work across Indonesia or internationally. Here are some common career options:
Performing Arts Graduates
Dancers, Choreographers, and Performers: Graduates specializing in traditional Balinese dance or contemporary performance arts often work as performers or choreographers. Many find work in theaters, dance companies, or cultural tourism.
Music Performers and Composers: Graduates in traditional music (like gamelan) or contemporary music can become performers, composers, or music directors. Many are employed by cultural organizations, performing groups, or event companies that focus on Indonesian music traditions.
Theater Artists: Students graduating in theater arts can find work in acting, directing, or scriptwriting for theater productions, television, or film.
Fine Arts and Visual Arts Graduates
Artists and Sculptors: Many graduates from the fine arts department pursue careers as independent artists, exhibiting their work in art galleries or selling pieces through private commissions. Bali's thriving art scene offers numerous opportunities for visual artists.
Curators and Art Administrators: Graduates interested in museum and gallery management often find work as curators or art administrators, organizing exhibitions and cultural events.
Craftsmen and Designers: Bali is known for its rich tradition of handicrafts and design. Graduates often become artisans or designers, creating products like jewelry, textiles, wood carvings, and ceramics for the local and international markets.
Design and Media Arts Graduates
Graphic Designers: Graduates in graphic design work in advertising agencies, branding firms, or as freelance designers, creating digital and print content for clients in various industries.
Filmmakers and Animators: Graduates from the film and animation programs work as directors, producers, scriptwriters, and animators in the film, television, and digital media sectors. Bali's growing media industry and its focus on content creation for tourism and culture provide numerous opportunities.
Photographers: Many graduates from the photography program work as professional photographers in fields such as fashion, commercial photography, travel, and journalism.
Education and Research
Art Educators: Many graduates, especially those who pursue master's and doctoral degrees in arts education, go on to teach at schools, universities, or cultural institutions. They may also work in arts education programs or community outreach projects that promote arts and culture.
Cultural Researchers: ISI Denpasar graduates interested in preserving traditional arts and culture often work in cultural preservation projects or as researchers studying Indonesian art forms and traditions.
Self-Employment in the Creative Arts
Many ISI Denpasar graduates go on to become self-employed artists, opening their own art studios, galleries, or production companies. Bali’s reputation as a global arts hub and its steady flow of tourists provide a fertile market for artists to sell their work and offer cultural experiences.
Graduates in handicrafts, jewelry making, painting, and sculpture often establish their own businesses, collaborating with local artisans or exporting products to international markets.
Freelancers in Media and Design
Graduates in graphic design, film, and photography often work as freelancers, taking on project-based work with clients from both Bali’s local tourism industry and international clients. The rise of remote work opportunities has also expanded their options for global collaborations.
Workshops and Training
ISI Denpasar encourages students to develop entrepreneurial skills, particularly those interested in starting their own art-related businesses or working as freelancers.
The institute often organizes business development workshops, art marketing seminars, and entrepreneurial training to equip students with the skills necessary to build a successful career in the arts.
Student-Run Exhibitions and Performances
Students often have opportunities to organize their own art exhibitions, film screenings, or performances, providing a platform for them to showcase their work to the public and potential employers. These events help students build their portfolios and gain real-world experience in managing artistic projects.
Strong Alumni Network
ISI Denpasar has a growing alumni network, with many former students excelling in fields such as the visual arts, performing arts, and design both in Indonesia and internationally.
The institute stays connected with its alumni through events and exhibitions, and some alumni return to campus as guest lecturers or mentors for current students.
Success Stories
Numerous ISI Denpasar alumni have achieved notable success in the arts. Many graduates have become prominent artists, designers, performers, and educators, contributing to Indonesia's vibrant cultural scene and showcasing their work at prestigious local and international platforms.
Students and graduates from ISI Denpasar frequently participate in art festivals such as the Bali Arts Festival, Jakarta Arts Festival, and international arts festivals in Singapore, Europe, and the United States. These events help students gain exposure and create networking opportunities with international curators, producers, and investors.
Although ISI Denpasar does not have a formalized placement office, the Career Services department offers support in the following ways:
Job Listings: The university often shares job opportunities and freelance projects in the arts sector with students.
Networking Opportunities: Career fairs and networking events are sometimes organized to connect students with potential employers in the art world, including galleries, media companies, and cultural institutions.
Mentorship Programs: Some departments offer mentorship programs where students are paired with professionals or alumni who can guide them in their career development.
Program Popularity:
Highly specialized and popular programs, such as traditional Balinese dance, gamelan music, and fine arts, may have more competitive entry requirements because of limited spaces and high demand, both locally and internationally.
More niche or newer programs may have slightly lower competition levels, making the admission process less stringent compared to more well-known fields.
Entrance Auditions and Portfolio Requirements:
For many programs at ISI Denpasar, applicants are required to submit a portfolio or participate in an audition (for performing arts), which plays a significant role in the selection process.
Strong artistic portfolios or impressive performances in auditions are crucial factors in determining whether a student is accepted, particularly for disciplines such as dance, music, theater, and visual arts.
Domestic vs. International Students:
ISI Denpasar is a popular destination for both domestic and international students, particularly those interested in learning traditional Indonesian art forms. International students may face additional competition depending on the specific number of places available for non-Indonesian applicants.
International students are also evaluated based on their ability to adapt to programs taught in Bahasa Indonesia (with some offering language preparation) and their willingness to immerse themselves in local cultural practices.
Faculty and Resources:
As an art institute, ISI Denpasar may have limitations in terms of faculty-to-student ratios and specialized resources like studio space, performance areas, and access to materials. This can also affect how many students the institute is able to accept in any given year.
Institut Seni Indonesia Denpasar
Jalan Nusa Indah No. 4,
Sanglah, Denpasar
Bali 80235, Indonesia.
