Nusantara Arts Inc.

Nusantara Arts Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Buffalo, New York. The organization is dedicated to promoting Indonesian arts, music, and culture in Western New York and beyond.

History

Nusantara Arts Inc. originated from the Buffalo Gamelan Club, which was founded in 2016. In 2019, the club's founder, Matt Dunning, transitioned the group into the nonprofit organization known as Nusantara Arts Inc. This transformation was approved in the summer of 2019, marking the beginning of a more structured and expansive initiative to share Indonesian cultural experiences with the community.

Mission and Values

The organization's mission is to invite the community to experience Indonesian music and art. It operates under core values of inclusivity, refinement, cooperation, community, experience, and preservation. These values reflect a commitment to cultural exchange and the preservation of traditional Indonesian arts.

Activities

Nusantara Arts Inc. offers a range of activities aimed at enriching the local cultural landscape:

• Community Gamelan: The organization runs community gamelan groups and classes based on Indonesian learning methods. These sessions focus on fostering a sense of community and inclusivity among participants.
• Performances: Nusantara Arts presents world-class performances at various venues in New York, featuring collaborations with inspiring guest artists. These performances encompass concert music, shadow puppetry, and dance.
• Youth Programming: The organization collaborates with Buffalo String Works to provide an after-school gamelan program for refugee students. This program helps develop unique skills in listening, empathy, memory, and awareness.
• Preservation Efforts: Nusantara Arts works to preserve and promote Indonesian cultural heritage by collaborating with Indonesian artists and composers. This includes support for local musicians and preservation of revered compositions.

Community Engagement

The organization relies heavily on community support to continue its operations. It encourages donations, volunteer participation, and involvement in its board of directors. Additionally, Nusantara Arts participates in employer matching programs and offers opportunities for legacy giving.

Nusantara Arts Inc. stands out in the U.S. gamelan community as an independent organization not affiliated with a major university, yet it delivers a high level of cultural engagement and artistic performances annually.