Maggie Dewi Aldinger, an alumnus of the Bali Island School (BIS), graduated from the institution in 2015. Today, she is making waves as a Textile Conservator in Training at the University of Amsterdam’s (UvA) prestigious Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage Advanced Professional Programme. In this interview, Maggie reflects on her career journey, her aspirations for cultural heritage conservation in Indonesia, and the lasting impact of her time at BIS.

A Day in My Life as a Conservator

Currently, I’m a trainee in an advanced professional programme that focuses on the conservation and restoration of textiles. My daily activities involve diagnosing problems with heritage objects, creating detailed treatment plans, and experimenting with various solutions. I also conduct research and play a vital role in contacting stakeholders to ensure that these precious heritage items are cared for adequately.

On How BIS Influenced My Path

Looking back, I realise how instrumental my time at BIS was in shaping my understanding of my purpose. It was my first encounter with critical thinking, which helped me evaluate the pros and cons of the systems I participate in. At that age, I didn’t fully comprehend my purpose in life, but BIS laid the foundation for my character and instilled core values such as open-mindedness, honesty, responsibility, and a sense of humour that I carry into my career today.

On Indonesia’s Cultural Heritage

I have a deep desire to return to Indonesia someday to learn about traditional conservation methods practised in both homes and institutions. My aim is to bridge the gap between conservation in the Netherlands and Indonesia. I believe there are numerous Indonesian methods worth integrating into Dutch museums, especially those housing Indonesian artefacts. I’m determined to assist larger institutions that may struggle to protect their collections, especially given the challenges posed by our climate. Preserving the unique skills that define our textiles is also incredibly important to me—particularly in a world that is rapidly globalising.

On Meaningful Action

I envision contributing to these goals by working in museums that care for Indonesian objects here in the Netherlands while making connections during my visits to family in Indonesia. I plan to learn how local institutions manage their collections and hope to merge that knowledge with the skills I’ve developed in Europe. By sharing this valuable information within my field, I aim to foster collaboration and enrich our conservation practices.

On Memorable Moments at BIS

One of my most cherished memories from BIS is the Battle of the Bands. It was such a thrill to be a drummer initially, and then later a vocalist. Although I was quite shy back then, those performance moments have left a lasting impression on me, and I often think back to those exciting times whenever I miss playing the drums.

I also have heartfelt memories of my teachers and the incredible staff at BIS. I’m grateful to them for believing in my potential. I fondly recall Mr Lennon praising me for going from not knowing how to swim to placing second in backstroke, and I still cherish the moment when Ibu Jane celebrated my ability to read a full paragraph. I often think about Mr Andrews, who expressed his sadness when I left, as he was keen to see what I would accomplish in music. I would love the opportunity to reconnect with those inspiring teachers and staff, many of whom have had a profound impact on who I am today.

On Future Plans

As I continue my journey in textile conservation, I remain committed to preserving both our cultural heritage and the traditional skills that are integral to our identity. My experiences have shown me the importance of blending tradition with modernity for a sustainable future, and I’m excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.