Semarang – A student of the Arts Education Study Program at the Faculty of Languages and Arts, Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES), has proven that having special needs is no obstacle to creating art. Airlangga Satryatama Wisnumurti, known as Angga, is presenting his solo exhibition titled “Unspoken” at Tan Art Space from March 25 to 31, 2026.
Angga has had dyslexia since childhood—a neurological learning disorder that affects reading, writing, and language processing. Instead of holding him back, the condition pushed him to find another form of self-expression: painting.
What began as therapy has now become Angga’s primary medium for conveying ideas, emotions, and his perspective on the world. Through “Unspoken,” he presents visual works that reflect various social phenomena, personal experiences, and imaginations that are difficult to express verbally.
His paintings feature dense compositions with intricate details and contrasting colors. Visually simple at first glance, they carry complex meanings. The works serve as an alternative form of communication, showing how verbal limitations can be replaced by visual power.
Angga’s mother, Sri Purwanti, said her son’s artistic abilities have grown significantly over time. “Painting is Angga’s way of expressing what is hard to say. Several of his works have already been sold, and that motivates him to keep creating,” she said.
Angga’s journey has also been supported by various parties, including Klub Merby and HOKG Studio, which provided him with space for exploration from an early age. The pressure-free guidance helped Angga discover his own visual character while improving his communication and social interaction skills.
Academically, Angga is a 2023 cohort student in the Arts Education program at UNNES. The program coordinator, Ratih Ayu Pratiwinindya, noted that Angga follows lectures well and has a distinctive artistic style.
“Behind visuals that appear simple, Angga’s works contain complex ideas and boldly address various issues,” she explained.
Through the “Unspoken” exhibition, Angga not only showcases his art but also delivers a message that every individual—including those with special needs—has the potential to grow and contribute. The exhibition stands as proof that limitations are not barriers; instead, they can become strengths in finding unique ways to communicate.
Angga’s story and works align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by supporting inclusive learning for individuals with special needs. They also support SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by promoting equal opportunities for all individuals to develop without discrimination. These efforts further strengthen the creation of an inclusive environment in both education and the arts.
