Noer Cholis (b. Malang, E. Java, 1984) Bocah Penyapu Dahaga

Artist’s statement: Quoting one of Bung Karno's wise sentences, "Give me ten young men and I will shake the world." This confirms that the younger generation has an important role for the continuity of life as successors and heirs of a nation and state. The thirst-squeezing boy is a symbol of how valuable young souls are in every nation and country. As humans who are blessed with a conscience, it is best for adults to protect, educate and set an example for young souls (children) to always be on the side of goodness. This is very important to do considering how harsh and damaged nature is today. The visualization of the earth which looks like a watermelon has the meaning of young souls who will continue and maintain the continuity of nature on this earth, they are the ones who will clean up (sweep away) the damage that evil humans have done, and who will quench their thirst (watermelon visualization) that has plagued life today.
Medium: mixed media on canvas - 2023
Size: 140 x 120 cm