Captain John Transforms Lodaya Street Wall from Vandalism to Vibrant Art
By Indira Akmalia Hendri - Mahasiswa Perencanaan Wilayah dan Kota, 2021
Editor M. Naufal Hafizh, S.S.
BANDUNG, itb.ac.id - A 100-meter-long wall along Lodaya Street in Bandung City, which for a long time had been plagued by unsightly vandalism, has now undergone a remarkable transformation into a vibrant and visually captivating mural. This impressive piece of public art was created by John Martono, a distinguished artist who also serves as a lecturer at the Faculty of Arts and Design (FAD) at Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB). Commonly referred to by his affectionate nickname, Captain John, he dedicated a total of twelve consecutive days meticulously painting a series of dynamic scenes illustrating various popular sports disciplines, including soccer, badminton, and cycling. This expansive mural, measuring three meters in height, was officially inaugurated in a formal ceremony led by the Mayor of Bandung, Muhammad Farhan, on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.
The mural now stands proudly as a new cultural and artistic landmark within the South Bandung district. In conjunction with this vibrant artwork, the pedestrian sidewalks on Lodaya Street have also been thoughtfully redesigned to enhance their accessibility, making them more accommodating not only for general pedestrians but also for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, designated bicycle parking facilities have been installed, further contributing to the comfort and ease of access for a broad spectrum of community members.
This mural project represents far more than a mere attempt to beautify the urban landscape; it is an integral component of a larger, strategic initiative aimed at reinforcing Bandung’s unique cultural identity through the expressive power of art. For John Martono, the mural symbolizes a deeply held commitment to revitalizing and breathing new life into public spaces that had previously been neglected.
“This mural is not just decoration but a way to express the city’s spirit and identity through art,” Captain John explained.
He also underscored the critical importance of preserving public artworks, emphasizing that these cultural assets must be maintained with care and respect to ensure their longevity and continued appreciation. He expressed a strong hope that the mural would inspire the residents of Bandung to develop a deeper respect for public spaces, viewing them not simply as areas for transit but as vital expressions of the city’s collective identity and cultural heritage.
“I hope we can all care for this mural—not just this one, but all artworks in our city. Let’s prevent vandalism and instead nurture and enjoy them together,” he added.
The presence of this mural is anticipated to generate a positive and lasting impact, not only enhancing the aesthetic appeal and community pride of the Lodaya Street neighborhood but also improving Bandung’s overall image. It powerfully demonstrates how art can function as a valuable tool for urban beautification and the revitalization of public spaces, while simultaneously motivating younger generations to continue engaging in creative endeavors.
Reporter: Indira Akmalia Hendri (Urban and Regional Planning, 2021)
Translator: Atika Widya Nurfaizah (Postharvest Technology, 2021)
