What happens when architecture meets people, culture, and local materials?

Wastu: The Praxis of Mangunwijaya is a cinematic exploration of the architectural work of Yusuf Bilyarta Mangunwijaya – priest, architect, and writer. Twenty-five years after his death, this documentary focuses on selected buildings he left behind. It not only showcases the buildings themselves but also how they are connected to the people and communities they serve. The film brings together former colleagues, collaborators, craftsmen, and users of these buildings to share their memories, shedding light on the social and cultural significance of Mangunwijaya’s architecture. Through their stories, the legacy of Mangunwijaya and the lasting impact of his work on people and society come to life.

Who was Mangunwijaya?
Yusuf Bilyarta Mangunwijaya (1929–1999) was an Indonesian priest, architect, and writer. Influenced by his studies at RWTH Aachen University in West Germany in the 1960s, Mangunwijaya aimed to adapt the universal principles of modernism into an authentic, locally rooted expression. He was a pioneer of collaborative and sustainable architecture, responding directly to the specific needs of the local environment—an approach that remains highly relevant today. His work is a testament to his socially conscious philosophy, with his architectural legacy deeply intertwined with his commitment to the common good.

Contributors:
Mahatmanto, Wirjono (Wing) Raharjo, Revianto Budi Santosa, Sr. Martina Martiningsih Surjo S., Leila Chairani Budiman, Surono, Ado Bintoro, Albertus Soegiyarto, Agustinus Warno Miharjo, Fr. Moses William Yuwono, Yohanes Basuki Dwisusanto, Ariyanto

Film Team:
Directors: Angeline Basuki, Avianti Armand
Executive Producer: Setiadi Sopandi
Cinematographer: William Sutanto

Language: Indonesian with English subtitles
Runtime: 52 minutes

Dedicated to Eko Agus Prawoto (1958–2023)

Wastu. The praxis of Mangunwijaya is part of Learning From Mangunwijaya, a project of the platform Encounters with Southeast Asian Modernism.

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The film will be screened at various locations in the coming weeks. Follow us on Instagram for updates and schedule.