Traveling Batik: From Java to Bali to across the globe

Batik is the stunning textile process of wax-resist dyeing. The exact origin of batik is unknown but first appeared in Java during the late 1800s and would then start to play an important role in Indonesia’s overall history and cultural heritage. The word Batik derives from the Javanese word “Tik” which means to dot. Furthermore, Batik is also linked to the Javanese phrase “Mbatik Manah” which means to paint with your whole heart. The art of Batik brought the people of Indonesia to come as one and was even awarded by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. 

Batik: A brief history

The traditional skills were particularly well developed over hundreds of years in Central Java mainly in the cities of Yogyakarta and Solo. Batik is not only a beautiful textile art form, but it is also deeply rooted in Indonesia's royal hierarchy and was initially worn only by royal families. The batik Parang designs were restricted to certain people like the Sultan of Central Java, his family and royal servants. When Batik was first created for the Sultan, it would be months of strenuous hard, detailed work as these batik were done so with great care as every single dot and line had a specific meaning and purpose.

The Batik industry peaked in Java in the 1950s and heavily inspired provinces close by, including the island of Bali in the 1970s where Batik commonly started to appear in the central religion of Hinduism and in the everyday life of the local Balinese people. Batik can be seen worn during Hinddhu ceremonies alongside Kebaya and Kamens and in traditional dances like the Kecak, also known as Fire dance.The designs in Balinese Batik are often inspired by the island's faunas and mythological beliefs. Flowers like hibiscus and frangipani are common motifs, as well as creatures like the barong bali (the king of spirits) and Pisang bali (banana trees). Over the years Batik has greatly morphed to become a deeply meaningful part of Balinese culture.

The influences that shape Batik

Batik was then soon recognised across the globe for its unique and beautiful cultural authenticity. For centuries, batik has been traded by different cultures including India, China, Arabia and Europe. Resulting in the art being loved by people from all corners of the world. Today, batik can be found in many countries, each with their own take on the textile art, and is now widely produced in Sri Lanka, Africa, Thailand and Suriname. Surprisingly, you will come across a number of batik stores in the Netherlands due to Dutch colonialism in Indonesia that lasted from the 1700s to 1945. 

Batik does not just sit in the hearts of Indonesians but will continue to thrive amongst other cultures. Every motif has a story of Indonesia’s struggles, triumphs, battles and beliefs; making Batik one of the most treasured art forms to exist. 

Check out our extensive Batik library, curated by yours truly, by clicking the link below.