Heri Dono is a leading contemporary artist based in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. He rose to international prominence in the early 1990s, becoming the first Indonesian artist to truly break into the global art scene. Heri Dono's artistic journey began in the 1980s, and since then he has traveled extensively, exhibiting his work and participating in workshops around the world.

Heri Dono's signature style lies in his captivating installations and paintings. These works are deeply inspired by the rich tradition of wayang, the complex shadow puppet theater of Java. Wayang performances combine artistic and non-artistic elements, weaving together visual arts, storytelling, music, social commentary, and humor. Dono takes these components and reimagines them in his art, often incorporating multimedia elements. This creates a unique and interactive experience for viewers, mirroring the social engagement fostered by wayang performances. Heri Dono's work is not simply homage; it reflects his dedication to revitalizing these deeply rooted Indonesian traditions.

Heri Dono's artistic talent and dedication have been recognized on a global scale. He has been a prolific exhibitor, participating in over 300 exhibitions and 35 international biennales. Notably, he is the only contemporary Indonesian artist to be invited to the prestigious Venice Biennale curated exhibition in 2003. His impressive list of accolades includes the Dutch Prince Claus Award for Culture and Development, the UNESCO Prize, and the Anugerah Adhikarya Rupa (Visual Arts Award) from the Indonesian government.