GWK (Garuda Wisnu Kencana)

Places of interest :: GWK is one of tourist places and destination in Bali, it is for artistic performances, exhibitions, and conferences as well as for sightseeing and relaxation , below is the information.

Situated on a limestone escarpment overlooking the South Bali tourist region, Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park shocases the art and culture of the Island of the Gods amid dramatic natural backdrops and breathtaking panoramic vistas. Located fiften minutes from the international airport and less than an hour from most major hotels and resorts, GWK is one of the island's premier venues for artistic performances, exhibitions, and conferences as well as for sightseeing and relaxation
Dominating the park is Wisnu , a bust of a Hindu deity constructed from giants slabs of copper and brass. Representing the divine force responsible for the protection of the universe, the 22 meter Wisnu figure is a modern rendering of an ancient cultural tradition. The companion piece, Garuda , represent the giant bird which transports Wisnu, a symbol of both freedom and selfless devotion.

The two 25-meter natural limestone pillars comprising the Gapura Batu , at the entrance gate to the complex, are carved with images taken from the Ramayana, the Mythical cycle of stories forming the dramatic basis of most Balinese art forms. The base-relief carving on the gate depict scenes from the Wayang, the shadow puppet theatre unique to Bali and neighbouring Java .

With little rainfall and open to fresh tropical breezes, GWK facilities are ideal for all types of outdoor events. The first-class acoustic environment of the 800-seat Amphitheatre is a peerless venue for intimate cultural performances. Enclosed by enormous limestone pillars with the Wisnu figure as a backdrop, the dramatic Lotus Pond area has a capacity for 7500 persons. Like the ceremonial boulevard of a Balinese village, the Street Theatre is suitable for processions, fashion shows, and other mobile performances. The most intimate space, the Plaza Kura Kura , can hold200 people. In additional to the open public spaces, the Exhibition Gallery provides 200 square meters of covered area as well as ten square meters of internal open courtyard.