From Bali to US
Lovers of handmade crafts and Asian arts and culture can rejoice! Local batik artist and Indonesian educator Laura Cohn will again open From Bali to Us, a magical bazaar and art show with special events, from November 1 through December 24, 2024 at 8514 Germantown Ave in the heart of Chestnut Hill.
This beloved event showcases glorious Indonesian handcrafts and treasures for sale, along with Cohn’s own contemporary batik paintings. Unique events range from a Play-the-Angklung music night for all ages to Stretching and Sipping Jamu (an herbal immune booster).
Each item is handpicked personally by Cohn in Indonesia, where she lived and painted for six years, learning the language and building relationships. Cohn’s 30 years of connections with artisans allow her to buy fair-trade handcrafts rarely seen in the US. She was also able to make virtual-visit purchases during the COVID-19 shutdown, so the show is as abundant as ever, unaffected by supply-chain limitations that worry many holiday shoppers.
In 2020, Cohn created a new online store, frombalitous.com, that lets shoppers browse and purchase everything from jewelry to sculpture, from the comfort of home. From Bali to US provides a deep dive into Indonesian culture with Cohn as vivacious guide, offering gifts for all ages and price points. A portion of every purchase benefits Indonesian non-profits that support women’s health, environmental clean-up and pandemic relief for artisans.
Cohn is passionate about her mission to educate Americans about Indonesia’s rich culture. Weekly free or low-cost events range from the opening celebration with Modero Indonesian Dance Company accompanied by live Gamelan (Indonesian orchestra), to a virtual Balinese cooking class and feast, films and travel talks, traditional instrument classes, a batik-fashion trunk show, modern Indonesian pop music, and more. Cohn promises that visitors will leave From Bali to Us feeling like they’ve visited the magical island of Bali itself.
SPECIAL EVENTS for our 2024 SHOW
OPENING CELEBRATION with Indonesian Music, Dancing, Treats, & Party
Friday, Nov. 1 @ 6 – 8 PM
To kick off our 28th season, we welcome you to enjoy our fantastic collection of treasures, delicious Indonesian treats and special drinks as Chestnut Hill’s arts scene comes alive on this First Friday of the month. Our doors open for Philadelphia resident Kirsten Spangenberg as she casts her spell with her Dangdut singing, a popular Indonesian fusion of local musical traditions, Indian and Malaysian film music, and Western rock. If her music makes you feel like dancing, be our guest!
GAMELAN MUSIC OF BALI
Saturday, Nov. 9 @ 4 PM
Enjoy traditional Gamelan music performed by the Gamelan Gita Santi members from our South Philly Indonesian community, led by Professor Tom Whitman from Swarthmore College. Listen to sounds from a world away and be transported.
DAVAS BATIK TRUNK SHOW
Saturday, Nov. 16 @ 1 – 4 PM
We invite all lovers of Indonesian fabric to welcome Davas Batik, a fashion designer from Java, as they bring their innovative style of batik apparel to our very own trunk show. Their collections include unique jackets, skirts, shirts, jewelry, and more, all available for purchase. Each year we love to have them at our show!
DINNER IN INDONESIA: COOKING DEMO & FEAST
Thursday, Nov. 21 @ 7 PM
Join us as we explore the blend of cuisine & culture from the island of Java with a touch of Chinese influence. The owners of Pecel Ndeso Catering will teach us how to make many delicious regional favorites while we feast on the dishes together. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available. Pre-registration is required: $43 per person, but seating is limited and fills up quickly! Sign up at the shop or with our Evite.
STAG & DOE NIGHTS in Chestnut Hill
December Wednesdays before the Holidays 6 – 9 PM
For three fun Wednesdays – December 4, 11, and 18, – experience the sights & sounds of Chestnut Hill’s many shops decked out for this special holiday tradition. Once again, From Bali to Us is the happening spot on the Hill: come taste our Indonesian treats and tropical cheer!
ART OPENING for LAURA COHN’S Contemporary Batik Paintings
Friday, Dec. 6 @ 6 – 8 PM
Every First Friday, the vibrant community of Chestnut Hill comes alive with creativity, culture, and culinary delights! Join us as our very own Laura Cohn shares her journey of over 35 years as a contemporary batik painter while immersed in the scent of melting wax and learning about this ancient art form. Of course, Indonesian treats and delights will be offered. Afterwards, stroll the Avenue to enjoy the other shops, galleries, and restaurants open late for this ARTS & EATS monthly happening.
A NIGHT of INDONESIAN DANCE & TEXTILES
Saturday, Dec. 7 @ 6 – 8 PM
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the traditional Indonesian culture through dance performances by Modero Dance Company and learn about the rich variety of Indonesian textiles through a fashion trunk show brought to you by WonderWorks event designer.
MORE SPICE, PASSION & CANDLELIGHT DINNER with Chef Diana Widjojo
Tuesday, Dec. 10 @ 7 PM – Second Dinner Added!
PASSION, SPICE & CANDLELIGHT DINNER with Chef Diana Widjojo
Tuesday, Nov. 12 @ 7 PM – Sold Out!
James Beard-nominated Philly-based Chef Diana Widjojo, formerly of acclaimed Hardena Restaurant, and her partner, Jennifer Cowden, bring their unforgettable Rice & Sambal to us for a very special evening of fine dining. Highlighting traditional & modern Indonesian cuisine, we’ll explore the islands of Indonesia, filled with all the passion & spice of the region. Please join us for an exceptional four-course dining experience unlike any other! Pre-registration is required: $85 per person, BYOB. Our first dinner sold out before we opened so we have added a second one in December. Seats are going fast! Save a spot at this exclusive event by signing up at the shop or with our Evite.
PASSPORT TO INDONESIA SLIDESHOW with Laura
Sunday, Dec. 8 @ 5:30 PM
Travel with Laura through her 35 years of living and working in Indonesia and loving it. Be transported to a distant, exotic land without needing your passport, and we’ll even have you home in time for dinner!
