Exhibition gives new interpretation to batik art

By Rina Rao

JAKARTA (JP): Batik as an art form needs no introduction here. It is an integral part of Javanese culture, and the names for different motifs can be traced back to literary works of the 12th century.

However the term batik tulis appeared in the Javanese courts during the Islamic period, when stylization and abstraction were introduced. The deeper social and spiritual meanings connected with the production and use of batik are becoming better known only now.

Jagat Jagat Jagat, an exhibition of Batik art, both tulis (hand-painted) and cap (printed), at the Australian Cultural Center features the works of Agus Ismoyo and Nia Fliam of the Brahma Tirta Sari Batik Studio of Yogyakarta and James Bennett, an Australian textile designer.

The artists give a contemporary interpretation to this traditional craft. While Nia Fliam and Agus Ismoyo collaborate to produce work that has its aesthetic roots in Javanese philosophy, James Bennett's work combines his own background and experience with the impact Indonesia has made on him.

According to Ismoyo and Fliam, their work evolved from traditional batik and the deeper aspects of Kejawen, traditional Javanese mysticism. Their vision encompasses the tradition as much as new forms, through the understanding of the complex cosmology behind the sacred old batik motifs.

Their works are abstract, based on philosophical symbols and often loaded with meaning. These fine batiks juxtapose form and color to create a harmonious balance, blend motifs and patterns to make fluidity. There is great finesse in their execution.

Sacred

Fliam and Ismoyo work very well in silk. Api (Fire) in shades of brown has been inspired by the sacred Central Javanese batik motif of the parang' (dagger). Kuda Binal (Wild Horses) is a wonderful abstract piece in shades of green and yellow. Symbolic and attractive, it is quintessentially Javanese.

Some of the works have been inspired by the sacred Kawang motif, which symbolizes the inner world of the mind and spirit. These works make strong appeals to the subconscious and are beautiful and intricate.

Inner puppet is perhaps one of the most attractive pieces on show. This cap batik in maroon and rust on silk features Arjuna, the Pandawa hero who symbolizes the ideal male and possesses all knowledge. Layered images symbolize the stages of development. It is a very subtle piece.

Burung-burung (Birds) is another very attractive piece in the same vein.

In Kebun (Garden) and Bayangan Tradisi (Shadow of Tradition) the artists use the texture of cotton to advantage, in a collage of traditional designs. Some of the pieces are divided into panels where the designs are always well executed, as in Floral.

James Bennett displays a completely different style in his work. Bennett's experience working with Australian Tiwi artists taught him the power of the decorated surface and respect for the sacred element central to black art. He combines Australian and Indonesian elements to produce some unique work that is atmospheric and tonal.

Colors and tones from the natural world dominate his works, as do lines and dots from Australian aboriginal art.

Contrast

These influences are combined with the Javanese element of tambal-tambalan (patchwork). These motifs are based on the patchwork fabric worn by the spiritual healers. The contrasting origins of influence creates a very interesting dialogue in Bennett's works.

Antipodean Birds uses the ikat dyed cotton to advantage in earth tones while Mulpinyini uses the Tiwi aboriginal language of lines and dots. The work is divided into several panels, and the subtle earth shades are very attractive.

There are bolder works using the same format. Flight of birds depicts flocks of cockatoos in combination with traditional Javanese floral cap in handwoven cotton. Perang Kembang, a patchwork piece, refers to the standard battle sequence in the traditional Wayang Kulit puppet drama.

This Life, a bold piece of work, depicts the cycle of life and its meaninglessness, with a touch of humor. Images of humans running across a background of skulls, skeletons and bones cannot be easily forgotten.

The loveliest piece in Bennett's works is perhaps Tambal- tambalan, a subtle, subdued piece using old Javanese motifs and discharge dyeing on handwoven Indian silk. Crows is attractive and evokes the great Australian outback.

Jagat Jagat Jagat is an interesting show that represents a collaboration of cultural and professional influences. It is also an exercise in patience, discipline, artistry and fine craftsmanship.