The Desa Dialogues at Potato Head Bali unfolded as a three-part podcast series, bringing together artists, thinkers, and cultural practitioners in conversation, with myself as the interviewer guiding each dialogue. Each session offered a distinct yet interconnected perspective on Ogoh-Ogoh and Nyepi, situating these traditions within contemporary life in Bali.
In the first conversation, Marmar Herayuti reflected on his design approach, emphasizing a responsiveness to present-day phenomena. He spoke about the psychology of good and evil as expressed through Ogoh-Ogoh, suggesting that these figures embody the complexities of the human psyche rather than fixed moral binaries. Alongside this, he highlighted a commitment to environmentally conscious practices, advocating for the use of sustainable materials in the making of these ephemeral sculptures.
The second dialogue with I Gusti Ngurah Udianata traced his early experiences in shaping the Tampaksiring style of local folklore. He recounted how the craft was rooted in community participation and storytelling, and how, over time, he has shifted towards a more facilitative role—stepping behind the scenes to allow younger generations to take creative leadership, ensuring the continuity and evolution of the tradition.
In the final conversation, Made Susanta spoke about the rituals that precede and follow Nyepi, framing the day of silence as both a cultural necessity and a profound gift. In the context of an increasingly fast-paced world, he described Nyepi not simply as restriction, but as a vital pause—an opportunity for reflection, recalibration, and collective stillness.
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