ARMA Museum Visit

Although only part of the resort itself, Agung Rai's private collection, the curation here is so overwhelming compared to the SAKA Museum, which is also owned by the resort ... more like a gallery than a museum. The quantity and quality of the collection is superb. But the curation was barely noticeable, like finding a space to put the painting in and missing a clue that would string everything together. Each piece is equipped with a two-dimensional code that sweeps through the work and author's introduction. The starting point is good, but the text is abstractly written, one by one it's cumbersome to sweep away, some can't yet sweep out. With a clearer narrative context, visitors can also get a more three-dimensional view of the stories behind these collections in a short time. I wish I could read each one, it might have taken a week. There's a short film worth seeing, such as the documentary about how Walter Spies created it in Bali and his influence on local art, which is in depth. But there's also some recidivism in it, and the more I look at it, the more I think I overemphasize the influence of a white man on Balinese culture... It's uncomfortable to watch me as an Asian anyway. Tickets are bought with a small book that tells the story of the pavilion and Mr. Agung Rai himself. The logic that the entire art gallery is named after and centered on him is fine in itself. But when the narrative is so skewed towards its founders and each collection isn't presented with equal care, it feels a bit like putting the cart before the horse - placing too much emphasis on the owner and belittling the work itself. I see the door close at noon, and when I see a work that interests me, I stop to take a closer look. As the staff was sweeping the floor near closing, an elderly man came up to me and spoke to me. I also immediately recognized Agung Rai himself. There were a lot of people in the Little Red Book who had shared this egg, but I didn't think it would happen. Enjoyed the first half of talking to him and was inspired by how nature is Balinese's most primitive belief. Tickets include a black coffee, can be served with milk and the cafe is in a good environment. The whole ARMA is more like a grand view garden plus cafe, coming in for a stroll and finally sitting down for a drink at the right pace. It's recommended to go in the morning. The sooner the better.

Very nice museum and restaurant. This was a first class experience and we really enjoyed ourselves. The location is also close to other nice things to do.

Very interesting museum with a beautiful collection of Balinese paintings, in a relaxing setting. The price including admission and lunch is interesting. Very few visitors which is surprising in a city like Ubud where we come partly for art.

Very much enjoyed this art gallery in spacious grounds..... Quite and well laid out. Every piece was labelled and described and all schools of Balinese art are covered..

This museum, with its various buildings all surrounded by lush greenery, is a quiet gem in the craziness of Ubud. We got there at opening time, and wandered in peace and quiet through the numerous galleries of Balinese art. What an amazing art collection of varied mediums that Agung Rai amassed. It was lovely to sit in their open air cafe enjoying an iced tea (included in our museum ticket) and then wander the grounds watching the artists at work.

This was a surprising Museum and really the one to see first when one is in Ubud. While the building and grounds are lush, verdant and beautiful. However, the exhibits are breathtaking. It gives a deeper insight into Balinese culture and history. And the additional bonus of interacting with Agung Rai himself is a marvellous opportunity. We were impressed with Mr Agung Rai and his commitment and dedication to telling this Balinese story in such a wonderful way. Surely, a must-see when in Ubud.

A wonderfully curated museum showcasing Balinese art of varied mediums. It was nice to stroll at one’s own pace in this non-crowded venue. There’s a lovely open air cafe in which to relax enjoy the sounds and scents as well during your visit. There were also two seasoned artists onsite outdoors creating works. One was working on canvas & one with wood carving which was enjoyable to watch each at their craft.

I enjoyed my visit to the Agung Rai Museum. By and large, the exhibits are impressive. But, what really struck my fancy were the lush grounds which encompass the museum. I spent the better part of my visit sitting outside amongst all that fine greenery.

The museums, there are 3 different buildings , the garden, the dance school for children , many pleasant moments in the quiet in this bustling and noisy city! We enjoyed it very much.

Restful place in the center.of Ubud where modern art can compare with the traditional of the past. Just a zen moment in busy Ubud