In celebration of World Philosophy Day, the Faculty of Philosophy at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) hosted a unique and aesthetic art exhibition titled “Philosophy (Try Again) Makes Bread: Why Philosophy?” from November 21 to 26, 2024. The event invited both artists and art enthusiasts to reflect on the significance of philosophy as a body of knowledge that is not only theoretical but also relevant to everyday life.
Inspired by Louis Katsoff’s critique that philosophy “does not make bread,” the exhibition sought to answer this fundamental question: why philosophy? According to the organizers, it was a reflective question aimed at reevaluating the role of philosophy in shaping wisdom and meaning in human life.
The exhibition showcased a variety of art forms, including paintings, installations, interactive media, literary works such as poetry and short stories, as well as recorded media like videos and photography. All works were carefully curated based on their alignment with the exhibition’s overarching theme and the philosophical values they conveyed.
“Philosophy, in its various forms, is an art of reflection. Through this art exhibition, we want to show that philosophy can also be an aesthetic reflection that touches everyday life,” explained Huda, the head of the exhibition committee.
The artworks displayed were created by members of the UGM academic community, selected through an open submission process. The selection involved several stages, including in-depth curation to ensure that the chosen pieces adhered to technical standards and effectively communicated profound philosophical messages.
This exhibition was not only an art event but also a space for collective reflection for both the academic community and the general public. Through the theme “Why Philosophy?”, the event encouraged the audience to rethink the role of philosophy amidst the complexities of the modern world.
“Philosophy should be the answer to blind belief. Like art, it must provide a foundation for questioning, reflecting, and creating meaning in human life,” added one of the exhibition’s committee members.
By bringing together art and philosophy in one space, the Faculty of Philosophy at UGM hopes that this exhibition will serve as a medium to reaffirm the relevance of philosophy in answering life’s big questions.