The Beauty of the Garuda from the Pakudui Traditional Village: Balinese Art Heritage for the World

Pakudui Traditional Village is located in Tegalalang District, Gianyar Regency, Bali. This village is about an hour's drive from the center of Denpasar City and close to popular tourist areas such as Ubud. Pakudui has long been known as one of Bali's traditional woodcarving centers, particularly in the creation of Garuda statues. Garuda is a mythical bird in Hindu beliefs symbolizing courage, strength, and protection. In Balinese culture, Garuda is often depicted as the vehicle of Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. Garuda statues crafted by the artisans of Pakudui Village are not only spiritual symbols but also remarkable works of art.  

The art of carving in Pakudui Village has a long history passed down from generation to generation. Legend has it that this tradition began with the ancestors of the village, who integrated carving into their rituals and daily lives. Over time, the art of carving in Pakudui evolved and gained wider recognition. Initially, the artisans only made Garuda statues for religious ceremonies. However, as tourists' interest in Balinese art grew, the craftsmen began selling their works in local and international markets. This has made Pakudui Village renowned as the producer of the finest Garuda statues in Bali, and even in the world.  

Garuda Statue Carving Process (Source : Private Collection)

The creation of a Garuda statue is a lengthy and meticulous process. It begins with selecting raw materials, typically hardwoods such as suar or jackfruit, known for their strength and beautiful grain. The wood is naturally dried to remove moisture, preventing cracking during carving. The carving process itself can take months or even years, depending on the size and complexity of the statue. The artisans use various chisels to shape the majestic body of the Garuda, from its sharp beak to its towering wing tips. After carving, the statue is smoothed and polished to achieve a perfect finish.  

The Garuda statues produced by the artisans of Pakudui Village are extraordinary masterpieces of woodcarving. Their uniqueness lies in the intricate details of the carvings, reflecting the high skill and dedication of the craftsmen. Every statue is meticulously crafted, highlighting elements such as fine feathers, sharp talons, and the authoritative expression of the Garuda. Beyond its physical beauty, the statue holds deep philosophical meaning. Garuda symbolizes freedom, courage, and sacrifice. The story of Garuda in Hindu mythology teaches values such as compassion, loyalty, and strong determination in facing challenges. Therefore, a Garuda statue is not merely a decorative piece but also an inspiring spiritual symbol.  

Garuda Statue Collection (Source : Private Collection)

Despite having an extraordinary artistic heritage, Pakudui Village faces various challenges in preserving its traditions. One of the main challenges is the declining interest of the younger generation in continuing the craft. Many young people prefer to work in the tourism sector or migrate to bigger cities in search of other opportunities. Additionally, the influx of mass-produced, cheaper products poses a threat to the craftsmen. To address this, the art community in Pakudui strives to improve the quality of their products and expand their market internationally. To preserve the art of woodcarving in Pakudui Village, local government and community initiatives have been implemented. One such effort is organizing art and cultural festivals showcasing Garuda carvings. These festivals not only attract tourists but also motivate the younger generation to take pride in their cultural heritage. Moreover, some non-governmental organizations collaborate with the craftsmen to promote their products through digital platforms. This opens new opportunities for the artisans to sell their works in international markets.  

Pakudui Traditional Village is a shining example of how tradition and art can be a powerful source of inspiration for the world. Through the beauty and profound meaning of the Garuda statues, this village not only preserves Bali's cultural heritage but also makes a significant contribution to promoting Indonesian art on the international stage. With the right support, Pakudui Village can continue to thrive as a center of woodcarving art that is not only a pride of Bali but also of the world. Therefore, it is not an exaggeration to say that the beauty of the Garuda from Pakudui Village is Bali's artistic heritage for the world.