BATIK; TRADITIONAL ART vs MODERN ART

Batik is a type of a cloth that is originally came from Malay Archipelago since 15th century which traditionally uses a manual wax-resist dyeing technique.The ‘Batik’ word’s origin is either from the Javanese ‘amba’ (to write) and ‘titik’ (dot or paint) or constructed from a hypothetical Proto-Austronasian root ‘beCik’ means to tattoo from the use of a needle in the process.In 1880, the word ‘batik’ or ‘batek’ was first recorded in English as stated in Encyclopedia Britannica.
There are sources that claim that the early stage of Batik Malaysia started off with the use of wooden blocks (with motifs carved on it) which were then chopped several times to the cloth to form a pattern. This technique is also known as ‘batik chop’. In late 1920s, the Javanese batik makers introduced the use of wax and copper blocks on the East Coast. The production of hand drawn batik in Malaysia is relatively new. Known as ‘batik tulis’, the commercial production started in the 1960s. This is a free hand method of drawing just like drawing on a white sheet of paper, only difference is, this is on a cloth.
During the ancient time, batik was used for certain purposes.As an example, the Javanese Batik from Yogyakarta and Surakata was related to the religion.The indigo,dark,brown and white colours indicates the ‘Trinity of Gods of Brahma,Vishnu and Siva’.Instead of that,the certain patterns of Batik can be only worn by certain people to indicate their status in ancient sociallity.Consequently, during the Malay-Javanese ceremonial determined the royal status of a person by the cloth that the person wearing.
Over the years, this craft has developed its own particular aesthetic and design, peculiar to Malaysia. The motifs drawn include the Islamic values whereby motifs of animals are strictly prohibited. These are still very much practiced in the East Coasts states of Terengganu and Kelantan where batik is still very prominent. Nowadays, some artists from Kuala Lumpur adapt a more open minded concept with butterfly motifs, which in a way has now been like a symbol to Batik Malaysia. Today, it is common to see Batik fashion shows where models walk on the stage with Batik in modern dresses to promote this traditional art for young generations.This ancient outfit was then given a new life to preserve the culture as it was comercially promoted to the region of world.
Apart of that, Batik acts as a formal outfit for politician to wear in certain formal functions such as in ‘Cuti-cuti Malaysia’ promotion or for diplomatic visit in other country.Moreover, the Malaysia Airline System (MAS)’s air-stewardesses also compulsary to wear ‘Kebaya-Batik’ while working.
The uses of Batik now had also developed to shirts, bed-sheets, table clothes, sandals, scarf, handkerchief ,purse and many more.These are modern-handmade Batik are often purchase by tourists as souvenirs for the sweet memorable moments during their vacation here.
As a conclusion,Batik must be preserve one of the most Malaysia’s traditionally custom of culture.Although Batik uses now was originally develop to the modern and contemporary uses,the young generations should take a wise step to make sure that Batik will longer be exist.