A painter whose works are known for their strong character and personal style, Stefan Buana Sy was born in Padang Panjang, Indonesia, and lived his life there until he moved to the city of Yogyarta outside the capital city of Jakarta. His father, who was a naval officer, also worked as a sketch artist documenting his world travels with the Navy, and the young Stefan grew up immersed by his father in the artworks of Picasso and Paul Gauguin. By the time he was ready to attend college, he first made a trip to Bali where he ended up for one year. Having an opportunity to attend the Indonesian Art Institute in Yogyarta, he made a trip there deciding never again to return.

As a contemporary southeast Asian art...