A modern history of batik
[Credits clockwise from top: detail from Yee I-Lann’s ‘Orang Besar Series – Kain Panjang with Parasitic Kepala’; Bambang ‘Toko’ Witjaksono, Berbeda-beda Tetapi Putus Juga; Lamarlah Daku, Bukan Ibuku; Yee I-Lann, Essay #001 Alphabetised; Ismail Mustam, Evolusi; Khalil Ibrahim, Dua Beradek]
Good or bad, life is becoming increasingly global with big brands and media dominating cities worldwide. It feels that places in the non-virtual world are loosing their identity. Thankfully art can transcend this and while batik is prevalent throughout Asia, it is an integral part of Malaysia where I am currently based. The more prolific examples of batik are traditional and slightly predictable (colourful patterns with flora and fauna) and it can be hard to find a more original take on this established technique. This made it really exciting to visit the beautiful Ilham Gallery in the heart of Kuala Lumpur for their exhibition ‘Love Me In My Batik: Modern Batik Art From Malaysia and Beyond.’
Situated over two floors, this large gallery is a serene space with over 70 works on display. The exhibition tracks the story of modern batik, predominantly in Malaysia, from the 1950s onwards when it was emerging as a form of fine art partly through colonial patronage and in the 1960s when it was promoted by the state, through to today. It features pioneering work of highly regarded artists including Chuah Thean Teng and Khalil Ibrahim.
Each artist uses batik so differently it is incredibly diverse, what I found most fascinating was the work from the 60s and 70s. While the newest work is interesting, especially Yee I-Lann’s ‘Orang Besar Series – Kain Panjang with Parasitic Kepala’ it was often the technique that caught my eye (especially digital printing combined with batik). In contrast the pieces from the 60s and 70s almost seem more unique and poignant, partly due to the simplicity of the images, the colour choices, and perhaps because you rarely see work from textiles during this period.
Whatever your preference the range of what can be achieved through the medium of batik is incredible. I can’t recommend this free exhibition and gallery highly enough. If you can’t make it check out their website for more information or our Instagram and Pinterest pages for more images.
ILHAM, ‘Love Me In My Batik: Modern Batik Art From Malaysia and Beyond.’
Until 20th June 2016.
Levels 3 & 4, ILHAM Tower, No. 8, Jalan Binjai, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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