The story of Le Mayeur Museum began with a Belgian painter, Adrien Jean Le Mayeur de Merpres, widely known as Le Mayeur. He first set foot in Bali in 1932 and was immediately captivated by the island’s natural beauty and rich culture. The allure of Bali was so strong that he decided to extend his stay.
A turning point in his life occurred when he met Ni Pollok, a Legong dancer. She not only became his life partner but also his primary muse. Ni Pollok’s grace and beauty were frequently depicted in Le Mayeur’s vibrant and expressive paintings.
Over time, his house in Sanur Beach became filled with his works and evolved into a highly productive painting studio. In 1956, Indonesia’s Minister of Education, Teaching, and Culture at the time, Bahder Djohan, visited Le Mayeur’s home. Impressed by the outstanding collection of artworks, he suggested turning the house into a museum.
Le Mayeur welcomed the idea, and on August 28, 1957, the Le Mayeur Museum was officially opened to the public. The museum became a symbol of the fusion between Western art and Balinese culture. The paintings displayed not only depict Bali’s stunning landscapes but also portray the social life of its people at the time.
The museum’s main collection consists of Le Mayeur’s paintings, covering various themes ranging from Bali’s breathtaking scenery to the daily lives of its inhabitants. Many of his works also feature Ni Pollok. Due to the challenges of obtaining painting materials at the time, Le Mayeur used various mediums, including canvas, hardboard, bagor, plywood, and even paper.
The museum’s architecture consists of seven interconnected buildings arranged from north to south, reflecting the traditional Balinese architectural style that blends seamlessly with its surroundings. Today, Le Mayeur Museum remains a popular cultural tourism destination in Bali. In addition to admiring the artist’s masterpieces, visitors can also witness the museum’s role in the development of Balinese painting.
The story of Le Mayeur Museum teaches us the importance of appreciating the diversity of art and culture. The fusion of a Western artist’s vision with Bali’s rich heritage has resulted in extraordinary works that now form part of Indonesia’s invaluable cultural legacy.
Le Mayeur Museum is located at Sanur Beach, Denpasar, Bali, and is open to the public daily, except on certain religious holidays. Entry tickets are available at affordable prices, with different rates for domestic and international visitors. (BT)
