Yogyakarta - From pop culture we head for the exotic Oriental climes, where the traditional is being transformed into the contemporary. Artisans in Indonesia are transforming plentiful wood supplies into batik handicrafts. Their works are then offered as mementos for tourists, helping to expand the market for art done in the traditional way.
Batik textiles are well recognized as one of Indonesia`s traditional handicrafts.
Artisans at this tiny village south of the ancient city of Yogyakarta have combined wax-resistant-dying with traditional wood carving. And they`ve created a new tourist souvenir.
The artisans in Krebet village turn wooden boards into masks, puppets, statues and other products. They now paint them with traditional batik designs and patterns, for sale across the 17-thousand island archipelago. However the market doesn`t end there. The bulk of the products are exported to the United States and other countries.
The works are sealed with a special finish to ensure the colours do not fade.
Most of the artisans are accustomed to delicate work. They once produced leather goods. But the market faded.
Other galleries in the village have joined in, creating sufficient supplies of the crafts for local and foreign markets.
After more than 10 years, Krebet villagers are now teaching others the art of producing profitable handicrafts by combining batik with wood. Editor: Lu Jing
Source: http://www.cctv.com (August 06, 2008)
