Erica Hestu Wahyuni ​​is an Indonesian artist born in Yogyakarta in 1971.

Graduating from Indonesian Fine Art Institute in Yogyakarta and Surikov Institute of Art, Russia, Erica Hestu Wahyuni (born in Yogyakarta in 1971) is hailed as one of the most promising artists from Indonesia.

Erica is best known for her distinctively expressive “childlike” painting, often using striking colors with high contrasts and incorporating simplistic inanimate objects which often includes elephants, doves, children and the like.  While some criticized Erica’s style as naive or childish, some can also argue that the devil is in the detail (or beauty in the eye of the beholder).

At first glance, the naïve painting of Erica seemed simplistic with a seemingly serene color composition. But do not be so easily deceived, as the beauty lies in the detail. The meticulousness of the detail surely is a proof of Erica’s fine craftmanship but look closer and the piece will slowly uncover human complexities, in each of its detail and interconnected narrative. 

Collections of Erica Hestu Wahyuni

Each of Erica’s work carries humankind repertoire that yet to be unearthed by the observer; with the keen freedom of multiple interpretation in the world of no right or no wrong. There is a unique parallelism between the simplicity Erica’s painting and Erica’s perception of Indonesian culture and society; the intricate nature of all mankind is expressed by the “busy” ness of Erica’s painting style.

Erica’s work is definitely unique, and that is perhaps an understatement for this painter who is so full of zest of life. Quirky and authentic – Erica will always stay true to her own style – manifesting the nostalgia of playfulness spirit of the youth.