Keeping Art Works to Keep Alive the Meaning and Value of Culture

Protection of artwork through AXA Insurance Indonesia (AXA Insurance) together with AXA XL (Photo: Dok. AXA)

JAKARTA - In recent years, collecting art is no longer just an exclusive activity, but part of a modern lifestyle. Many people are starting to see art as a representation of themselves, a medium that reflects tastes, life journeys, and personal values that are difficult to measure materially.

In the midst of this trend, a new awareness emerged, namely that art is not only for enjoyment, but also needs to understand how to care for and protect it. Because each work has a unique character, both in terms of material, technique, to the story attached to it.

The approach to owning art is now more holistic. Not only about how to choose the right work, but also how to ensure the sustainability of its value, both physically and emotionally. Risks such as damage, loss, or changes in environmental conditions are often overlooked, especially for beginner collectors.

This phenomenon goes hand in hand with the increasingly dynamic art ecosystem in Indonesia. The increasingly rampant art exhibitions, the presence of new creative spaces, and the growth of a young collector generation show that art has become part of urban life. Art works are now present not only in galleries, but also in homes, workspaces, and public spaces as aesthetic elements as well as identity.

Protection of artwork is now part of a lifestyle that is more aware of values. It's not just about taking care of assets, but also taking care of the stories and meanings that are attached to them. Therefore, a more personal and specific approach to protection is becoming increasingly relevant. This is tailored to the character of each work, not merely its market value.

"We see the art and high-value asset segments as areas that require very specific protection," said Laurent Bourson, President Director of AXA Insurance Indonesia, quoted from an official statement on Saturday, May 2, 2026.

"Through Fine Art & Collections Insurance and collaboration with AXA XL, we present global standards in risk management and protection designed to maintain the value of valuable works of art and collections sustainably," he continued.

The artwork itself is very diverse, ranging from paintings, sculptures, to collectibles such as antique books, jewelry, or fashion with historical value. Each has different maintenance needs, ranging from temperature settings, lighting, to the right way of storing.

Understanding the life cycle of a work of art is also part of the new literacy in this lifestyle. From the process of acquisition, storage, to the possibility of being exhibited or inherited, each stage has different risks and requires special attention.

"With more than sixty years of global experience, AXA XL brings international standard Fine Art & Collections protection to Indonesia through collaboration with AXA Insurance. Our commitment is not only to provide insurance, but also to play an active role in protecting the value of art works and preserving cultural heritage through a global network of art experts," said Sylvie Gleises, Chief Executive Officer, Asia, AXA.

Collecting art is not just about collecting objects, but an effort to maintain the relationship that grows from the work itself. In a lifestyle that increasingly appreciates uniqueness, maintaining art works ultimately also maintains ourselves.