Bandung, IndonesiaSentinel.com — Standing tall against the Balinese skyline, the Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) statue is not only one of Indonesia’s most iconic landmarks but also ranks among the tallest statues in the world. Created by renowned Indonesian sculptor Nyoman Nuarta, this massive monument rises 121 meters, making it taller than the Statue of Liberty. The statue’s colossal presence reflects Indonesia’s deep cultural heritage and carries significant environmental symbolism.
A Symbol of Divinity and Power
The Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue depicts the Hindu god Vishnu riding the mythical bird Garuda. Vishnu, known as the preserver and protector of the universe, is often associated with justice, peace, and balance. In Balinese and broader Hindu philosophy, Garuda symbolizes loyalty, courage, and freedom, representing a force that brings Vishnu’s will to the world.
The statue’s imposing design portrays Vishnu in a calm yet powerful stance, riding Garuda mid-flight. Garuda’s wings, spread wide, span 64 meters, enhancing the visual grandeur of the structure. The choice of these two revered figures together underscores the relationship between divine protection and earthly freedom, a message central to Balinese culture.
Materials and Construction
Nyoman Nuarta, one of Indonesia’s leading contemporary artists, took nearly three decades to complete the GWK statue, which is composed primarily of copper and brass. Weighing around 4,000 tons, the monument’s massive size and intricate detailing required innovative engineering solutions.
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The statue’s surface, which glimmers under the tropical sun, was made from more than 22,000 individual pieces of brass and copper panels. Beneath this outer layer, a robust steel and concrete frame holds the statue steady against the frequent seismic activity in the region.
One of the Tallest Statues in the World
The Garuda Wisnu Kencana stands among the world’s tallest statues, towering over other well-known monuments. In comparison, the Statue of Liberty measures 93 meters from the ground to the tip of its torch. GWK’s remarkable height and wide wingspan make it not only a feat of artistic achievement but also a global landmark.
A Monument for the Ages
The Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue is now a focal point in the GWK Cultural Park, a sprawling 60-hectare complex that attracts millions of visitors annually. The park hosts numerous cultural events, performances, and exhibitions, promoting Bali’s rich artistic heritage. The statue itself is a towering reminder of Indonesia’s ability to blend tradition, modern engineering, and environmental stewardship into a singular, awe-inspiring creation.
As one of the tallest statues in the world, the Garuda Wisnu Kencana stands not only as a testament to Indonesia’s cultural and religious values but also representing the island’s dedication to preserving its natural and spiritual beauty for future generations.
(Raidi/Agung)
