As a dancer, Pak Guru Sumartana was known for his charismatic stage presence and his ability to convey deep emotions through his movements. He was a master of the topeng dance-drama form, in which he played a variety of characters, including the mischievous monkey god Hanuman, the noble king Rama, and the fierce demon king Ravana.
Pak Guru Sumartana was also a prolific choreographer, creating over 100 new dance pieces during his lifetime. His works are known for their beauty, their emotional power, and their deep connection to Balinese culture. Some of his most famous works include the Kebyar Duduk, the Tari Janger, and the Kecak Dance.
In addition to his work as a dancer and choreographer, Pak Guru Sumartana was also a teacher and a mentor to many young dancers. He taught at the ISI Denpasar (Bali's Institute of the Arts) for many years, and he also founded the Yayasan Widya Budaya Art Foundation, which provides training in Balinese dance, music, and gamelan.
Pak Guru Sumartana's contributions to Balinese dance are immense, and he is considered one of the most influential figures in the art form's history. He passed away in 2016 at the age of 90, leaving behind a rich legacy of work that continues to inspire and delight audiences around the world.