On a recent drive around Bali, my son Leonardo and I took a detour to explore Symon Art Zoo in Tejakula, an unconventional art gallery and studio founded by the late American artist Symon. Known for his bold, eclectic style, Symon spent over 40 years in Bali, earning a reputation as a dynamic force in the art world, often dubbed “the Balinese Andy Warhol.” His vibrant interpretations of Balinese culture, human figures, and landscapes have captivated art lovers worldwide.
A Glimpse Into Symon’s World
Symon’s art is a playful fusion of bright colors, exaggerated human forms, and a unique blend of Western and Balinese cultural influences. As we wandered through his studio, Leonardo, with an emerging interest in creativity, was drawn to the eccentricity of Symon’s work. Despite his young age, he could sense something special in the pieces we saw—art that was both whimsical and profound.
One of Symon’s distinguishing traits was his ability to take traditional Balinese wood carvings, old Ogoh Ogoh structures, and other found materials and transform them into something entirely fresh. His work—ranging from paintings to sculptures—was a reflection of his fascination with the human body, particularly the male form. Symon didn’t shy away from humor or sensuality in his art, managing to balance the two with elegance and without vulgarity. His reinterpretation of Balinese faces and landscapes, combined with fantastical backgrounds, created an immersive experience that captivated both Leonardo and me.
The Interactive Art Zoo Experience
Though the gallery has an unpolished feel, with parts of it appearing somewhat abandoned, this only added to its charm for us. Leonardo, ever curious, had the chance to touch and interact with some of Symon’s works, feeling the textures and asking questions about the creative process. His wide-eyed fascination with the vibrant art reflected Symon’s philosophy: art should be engaging and fun, allowing everyone, even children, to connect with it on some level.
We were also fortunate to gain access to some lesser-seen parts of the studio, where Symon had prepared materials for his artwork. The friendly, though non-English-speaking caretaker, allowed us a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of the artist, much to Leonardo’s delight.
Symon: More Than an Artist
Symon’s impact on the Bali art scene was more than just about his paintings. He was an artistic innovator, creating a space where art could be felt and experienced, rather than just viewed. His studio-home-gallery, Symon Art Zoo, offered visitors an immersive journey into his creative process. 
Symon’s ability to reflect deep emotions and human experiences through bold visuals is part of what made him so celebrated. His works are not simply aesthetically pleasing but carry a sense of humor, a touch of the fantastical, and an unfiltered honesty about emotions.
While Symon passed away a few years ago, his legacy lives on through his art and the Art Zoo he founded. Visitors can still engage with his work, which has a timeless appeal, and his studio remains a quiet sanctuary perched on a promontory overlooking the ocean in Tedjakula. This stunning backdrop only adds to the allure of the space, making it feel like an island of creativity in the middle of Bali’s natural beauty.
Leonardo’s Artistic Curiosity
Though Symon’s work is bold and sometimes provocative, it didn’t escape the attention of my 6-year-old. Leonardo was particularly impressed by the mix of media and the idea of turning discarded objects into art. His excitement at the textures and colors made the experience even more engaging for both of us. Leonardo may not have understood the deeper emotional layers in Symon’s art, but his pure, unfiltered reaction mirrored how Symon’s work can resonate on different levels for different audiences.
Symon’s Legacy
Symon impact on the Balinese and international art scenes remains undeniable. His life and work were captured in Philip Cornwel-Smith’s book Property of the Artist (Sang Yang Seni), which offers a rich biography of Symon’s incredible journey as an artist in Bali. The Symon Art Zoo stands as a testament to his legacy, preserving his daring artistic vision for future generations.
A Visit to Remember
Though the Symon Art Zoo is not widely advertised, the experience was well worth it. For a small donation of 50,000 Rupiah (3.5 USD), visitors are welcomed into Symon’s artistic world, where creativity flows freely. In the end, our visit to Symon Art Zoo became one of Leonardo’s favorite memories from our Bali adventure. His love for art was nurtured, and he walked away inspired by Symon’s legacy—a true testament to how art, when engaging and fun, can captivate even the youngest minds.
In the end, our visit to Symon Art Zoo left a lasting impression on both Leonardo and me. The gallery’s sense of discovery, combined with Symon’s vibrant and evocative works, made it a unique highlight of our Bali journey. Symon’s art invites you not just to view but to feel—something Leonardo, with his budding artistic spirit, grasped right away.
For anyone visiting Bali, particularly those with an interest in art that defies convention, a stop at Symon Art Zoo is well worth the trip. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply curious, Symon’s universe offers a colorful, interactive experience that will leave you both inspired and enchanted.
If you have an interest in unique art and find yourself in Bali, visiting Symon Art Zoo with your kids can be a refreshing and enriching experience. It offers not just a peek into an eccentric and creative world but also a lesson in how art can be both imaginative and inclusive.
For more details, check out Symon Art Zoo’s website and dive into the vibrant legacy of Symon, an artist who truly made Bali his own.
Villas Bukit Lipahs
Leonardo and I were hosted by Villas Bukit Lipas, a luxury villa complex that respects the symbolism of 5 elements.
Visit https://villasbukit.com/
Echo Bali Car Rental
AsianItinerary drove around the island of Bali with a reliable car provided by Echo Bali Car Rental in Jalan Pantai Sentosa No 4,Canggu, Seminyak, Bali – You can contact Mr. Wayan Suyadnya – Tel: +62 87860131999 / +62 85100151909 – FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/echobalicarrental – MAP: https://maps.app.goo.gl/m5fEDoZx8BSGfF3q7 – EMAIL: info@echobalicarrental.com
