Dr. Kerstin Duell. A Life Shaped by Curiosity Beyond Borders is inspired by a presentation given by Dr. Kerstin Duell at Usada Bali in June 2026. It draws upon themes and stories shared during her talk. The reflections that follow are offered as a response to her work and the questions it continues to evoke. […]
Reflections on Balinese ancestral traditions from a talk by Jean Couteau at Usada Editor’s Note The following article is based on a talk by Jean Couteau presented at Usada, exploring the cultural and spiritual dimensions of Galungan and Kuningan in Bali. Couteau’s reflections draw attention to the importance of ancestral relationships, ritual cycles. As well […]
Exploring Bali and its culture with John Couteau Pengrupukan and Ogoh-Ogoh: The Expulsion of Disorder is part two of a three part series based on a talk by Anthropologist and cultural expert Jean Couteau ‘Nyepi Uncovered’ at Usada Bali. Following the cleansing of Melasti, the focus shifts. If Melasti returns accumulated imbalance to its source, […]
A Conversation with Made Suryasa In Bali, knowledge does not exist in isolation. Architecture reflects cosmology. Healing reflects philosophy. Art reflects devotion. Made Suryasa embodies this interconnected intelligence, not only as a mask maker, but as a cultural thinker navigating tradition in a global age. Born in Dangin Puri Kaja, Denpasar, Made was shaped by […]
I’m sitting here with the team as we prepare the materials for our new Canang Sari Making Experience. The photoshoot and recordings took place a few weeks ago, and it was a memorable experience, even for our guest participants. We all acknowledge how often we see the canang in our daily lives here in Bali. […]
