penata

Penata is a term used in Indonesian and Malay to denote a person who arranges or organizes elements within a field. As an occupational title, it is formed from the root atur (to arrange) with the prefix pen- that marks the doer, producing penata, literally meaning one who arranges. In practice, penata is usually followed by a domain noun to specify the area of work, such as penata musik (music arranger), penata panggung (stage designer), penata rias (makeup artist), penata rambut (hair stylist), and penata busana (wardrobe designer or costume designer).

Penatas commonly work in arts, media, and event production, collaborating with directors, producers, and other designers to shape the overall presentation. Responsibilities can include arranging musical parts, planning stage layouts and lighting, selecting costumes and makeup, or coordinating hair and grooming to achieve a cohesive look. The term emphasizes the act of arrangement and coordination rather than the creation of original content, though penatas often contribute creatively within their specialty.

In modern usage, penata contracts may be short-term for a production or sustained for a season in film, theater, broadcast, or fashion. The equivalent terms in Indonesian include penata musik, penata panggung, penata rias, etc., and related words in Malay are similarly formed. See also: arranger, stylist, set designer, makeup artist.