About BatikThe Process of Batik MakingPhoto galleryTestimonialClasses and workshop
Batik Art, a medium using wax dyeing on cloth has now been internationally acclaimed as a unique and new type of media. It has been regarded as the National Art of Malaysia.
The origin of Batik is by no means new. In fact, it is believed to have originated from India and introduced into China during the Tang Dynasty ( 618 -905 AD). There is yet another claim that it originated from Java, in a process which the Javanese used in making their colorful batik sarongs. It reached its highest form in Java, where the craft has been a cottage industry since the 7th century. Nevertheless all these theories are yet to be proven.
This age-old medium was introduced to the Malay Archipelago from Java and has been developed into fine art by Malaysian artists. While Batik art is mainly used for the manufacture of apparel in Indonesia, in Malaysia it is both used for materials and Batik paintings.
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The technique of Batik is not a simple one. In fact, it is a long and painstaking process.
Firstly, I give the cotton cloth thorough washing in order to remove all the starch. The cloth is then dried, ironed and stretched out taut. This keeps the cotton cloth starch-free. Keeping the work clean is essential for this style of project.
My ideas are revealed through the use of the sketchbook. I get into the habit of referring back to the past sketchbooks for inspiration to fuel my imagination. A small pattern in a sketchbook could prompt a new idea.
Simple jottings can be developed into a series of small thumbnail sketches in order to realise an idea or they may simply progress into a more detailed working sketch. These drawings are eventually visualised in colour and a final detailed colour rough copy is undertaken before I progress to the actual piece so that all visual problems are revealed.
Then, using the sketchbooks as references, I create an imaginary piece about the underwater world. Thinking of the colors that I employ by growing them in painted swatches plette choice is very important and at this stage it should not be rushed. I then proceed by making a tracing of the final composition and transferring it to the cotton cloth. The design then develops later with each waxing.
Next is the application of the wax, which is used only as a protective agent in the dyeing process. The wax (usually a mixture of paraffin, resin and yellow beeswax) is melted and handled by means of the Tjanting, a brass pen shaped like a small cup with single or double spout. I paint with this pen in a negative way by covering up all places where I do not want the color to appear. The process is exacting and tedious and does not allow for errors, only "artistic mistakes". I don't just rush into the work, it usually takes a few minutes to assess my chosen scene and decide whether it is a suitable subject . I have to decide that it is not too complex but still has plenty of interest in its elements.
Like the lithographer, I must repeat the process of the first step after each color I decide to use.
The cycle of wax removing and wax covering for additional colors will continue until I consider my work complete.
After this is the application of colors or dyes to the painting. These can be painted on with a brush or, in the case of very large areas, the cloth can be removed from the frame and dipped or immersed in a basin of dye. You should always mix up plenty of paint when making colour combinations because if you run out of paint it may be impossible to get an identical colour match again. The use of good visualisation of colours is rewarded with success minus the pitfalls! They will enable you to solve any foreseeable problems in hardening the media and to practice appropriate techniques. This colour sketch is a variation on the final theme and uses identical painting methods.
The final stage is the removal of wax residue and the fixing of colors. This involves the dipping of the cloth into boiling water to which a small amount of detergent is added and then rinsing the cloth in cold water. The finished painting is then dipped in a diluted solution of sulphuric acid to fix the colors permanently.
The most noticeable feature of batik painting is the crackle, line and dots. Batik painting can be framed or scrolled.
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Testimonial
Batik for everyone !
Batik is for Malaysians! When people talk about batik, they think about Malaysian.
As a Malaysian, do u know how to make batik? This is very important for us to
know about our nation art and craft.
Currently TMS art workshop offers you, basic and regular classes. For the basic level, it is 4 days lessons, 3 hours per lessons, however for the advance classes, it is 10 days lessons, 3 hours per lessons. Choose the basic classes before you go for advance lessons or regular classes .
Classes and workshops are suited for the beginner. Those are interested in Batik painting are always welcomed.
1st floral inspiration
2nd fauna inspiration
3rd batik sarong
4th ethnic art form (eastern)
5th abstract art form (western)
6th east meet west
7th batik patchwork l
8th batik patchwork ll
9th batik history
10th creativity creation
Talk and discuss to our batik specialist, let us teach you how to produce your favorite batik products in every lesson. For example : soft furnishing items ( table cloth, bed sheet , table runner and etc ), sarong/ pareo, handkerchief, batik cloth and so on.
fee - Please email to tms art workshop for further information. ( tmsart@tmsart.com)
4 days Batik Workshop ( Friday ) full story...
4 days Batik Workshop ( Saturday ) full story...
2 days Batik Workshop ( Saturday & Sunday) full story...
1 day Batik Workshop ( Sunday) full story...