I’ve loved art for as long as I can remember. I started Segarhati after painting a mural at Rusunawa Albo, a subsidized housing project on the outskirts of Jakarta. That experience made me realize how much joy painting can bring, especially to children. I created Segarhati to share that joy with kids in kindergartens within housing projects. Many schools in Indonesia focus mainly on core subjects and often leave out the arts, so I wanted to give children a chance to explore their creative side and brighten up their everyday school life. Since housing projects are usually small and close-knit, the kindergarten wall becomes a central part of the neighborhood, seen by everyone. Through our murals, I hope Segarhati can bring happiness not just to the kids, but also to the residents and everyone passing by.

I started Segarhati the summer before 11th grade, inspired by my growing interest in architecture, interior design, and urban planning. When I was little, I loved visiting playgrounds and always believed that murals could make any space come alive. I still remember staying in the hospital for a week after my Nuss operation — the nurse would take me for walks down a hallway covered in an ocean-themed mural. Every walk felt like an adventure because I’d always spot something new. That mural gave me so much comfort and motivation during tough days.

Through Segarhati, I’ve learned that art isn’t just about self-expression, but also about bringing people together. Painting a mural with the kids, not just for them, is what makes Segarhati such a meaningful and joyful experience for everyone involved.