Ayu Utami (1968) studied Russian literature. Since 1998 she works as a journalist for the art magazine Kalam. The overt political message of her debut Samans Mission (1998) caused a wave of turmoil on the eve of the fall of President Suharto. The novel was proclaimed as the best novel of Indonesia. The social engaged Ayu Utami is considered as one of the leading authors of Indonesia and enjoys enormous international respect, especially among young people.

From the jury report of the Prince Claus Awards Committee (2000):

“The youngest prize winner is Ayu Utami (1968, Bogor, Indonesia), author. She writes about such matters as sex and the contacts between religions in her novel and essays in an uncommon way for Indonesia. Her tolerance and openness offer a balance to conservative streams. She makes a difference in the present period of Indonesian history.”

The Prince Claus Fund and the Amsterdam Fund for the Arts join forces in an international art programme that brings art and culture from all over the world to Amsterdam in a series of special activities. Interesting individuals from around the world come to Amsterdam and highlight topical issues through fashion, art, photography, film, music and dance. 
www.internationalekunstinamsterdam.nl