Sparkling prospects What do sparkling jewellery and top-quality pens have in common? A small white star, of course. The Montblanc name and its famous logo are recognized everywhere – the star is itself a status symbol. In Indonesia though, as elsewhere, people tend to associate Montblanc with up-market writing instruments only; however, the brand also offers leather products, accessories (including bags and eyewear products), Swiss-made timepieces and jewellery. Established in 1906 in Germany, Montblanc today is part of Swiss luxury goods group Richemont. Its sister companies include Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier and Vacheron Constantin. The luxury goods market in Indonesia has much potential, as people here are becoming increasingly brand-conscious, and superb pieces from watches to jewellery have always been the choice of those who rate quality highly. “We have very loyal customers, including in Indonesia,” says Montblanc managing director for Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand Catherine Ang. As women worldwide climb the career ladder, the percentage of them buying luxury jewellery for themselves is rising. Luxury brands, including Montblanc, have introduced exquisite diamond jewellery into their line to tap this potential segment, as diamonds are certainly still a girl’s best friend.

Artistic insight A solo art exhibition at the National Gallery in July 2008 was a run-away success. All 48 paintings sold out in a day and some disappointed art lovers reserved whatever the artist next decides to produce. In the centre of the buzz was Yogya resident and acclaimed artist Stephan Buana. Stefan’s use of unusual techniques to create amazing textures has always been his greatest strength. He works confidently on large canvases, creating craquelure cracks, uses spray paint and dyed threads, strewing wood shavings and sometimes staples to convey his message. On a seemingly monochromatic canvas, images emerge to tease the eye. In a certain light, one catches tranquil random images and memories from his village in Padang, West Sumatra. Like all of Stefan’s paintings, you need a moment to catch your breath and take it all in. One notices that a seemingly random pattern forms the stylized smiling image of Soeharto, Indonesia’s strong man and president for 31 years. On second take, the strewn staples resemble fallen bodies, delicately clinging onto the surface for life – subtly whitewashed to cleverly appear like nothing is amiss. It is politically poetic, and very powerful.