The Art of Batik

batik

/bəˈtiːk,ˈbatɪk/

nouna method (originally used in Java) of producing coloured designs on textiles by dyeing them, having first applied wax to the parts to be left undyed.

Batik has been celebrated by many designers and pattern lovers alike for centuries. Many different styles of batik incorporate different methods, tools, and materials but what sets batik apart is the wax application. The history of this art form can be traced back to Ancient Egypt and Ancient China but is more closely associated with Indonesia. The word ‘batik’ comes from the Javanese words ‘amba’ (to write) and ‘titik’ (dot). Common motifs on batik prints can include animals, plants and geometric shapes - all of which have different meanings.

In Ancient Java, communities would wear different batik motifs that would signal social status, record history or honor virtues - there were immensely special geometric patterns that were used by specific groups. For example, batik with ‘parang’ patterns were only worn by the royals whereas the ‘truntum’ pattern was worn at weddings or other celebrations of love. The silk and cotton garments were handed down from generation to generation as family heirlooms - respecting and paying homage to certain aspects of spiritual heritage.

At the turn of the 19th century - batik was introduced to Sri Lanka by Dutch colonial officers. Initially, it was a hobby for the elite but eventually, it spread to the artisans who turned it into traditional clothing and tapestry. Although it was a small-scale industry till the 1970s, it soon grew to become a part of Sri Lanka’s local heritage. It has evolved to where the modern woman is dressed in sophisticated batik sarees and outfits for weddings and other formal events to everyday wear, bridging the gap between the past and the present. The fashion designs have become locally and globally recognized, with every piece being handcrafted.

Sonali Dharmawardena is at the forefront of the batik fashion industry - she has worked with various mediums such as pottery, jewelry and fine arts. When she discovered batik, her love for fashion and art converged. From this, the Sonali Dharmawardena brand was created. She has been a trailblazer in the fashion industry, taking one of Sri Lanka’s oldest art forms and put her individual stamp on it by creating bespoke pieces in her atelier. You can find some of her beautiful creations on the Tambapanni Collective as well as get in touch for bespoke services.