Meet Dominggas (28): visual arts student

Who is Dominggas?

Dominggas grew up in a modest family in Papua. Her father has passed away, and her mother takes care of the family. Together with her two older brothers and younger sister, she tries to make ends meet. The eldest children contribute to the daily household costs, while the youngest is looking for work.

In the meantime, Dominggas is doing everything she can to realise her dreams — and she is full of plans for the future. She studies Visual Arts and Design at ISBI Tanah Papua in Jayapura. Every day, she travels more than twenty kilometres by motorbike from her home in Waena to the campus, so that she does not have to burden her family with accommodation costs.

After completing her studies, Dominggas hopes to continue with a master’s degree, so that she can eventually open her own studio. With this, she wants not only to shape her own future, but also to create employment for other Papuans. Creativity as a driving force for independence — that is her motivation and her vision.

Dominggas is not standing still. She is active as treasurer of the Indonesia Art Movement (IAM), takes part in research projects led by lecturers, and also contributes to the community around her. Her heart lies with her people — and with the value and strength of cultural heritage.

Because patterns, sounds, colours and techniques are not simply a matter of aesthetics. They tell the story of where you come from, and who you are. Dominggas wants to keep Papuan culture alive and pass it on to a new generation.

Would you like to contribute to Dominggas’ education? €2,000 will cover tuition fees, books and living expenses for four semesters. You can donate via NL66 TRIO 0321 0888 32, stating “Dominggas”, through our website or by using the QR code beside this article.