What is Balinese Batik?

Batik is a patterned fabric that is painted using canting and wax (candle), originated from Indonesia. At least there are 23 regions of Indonesia make Batik and the pattern usually represents its region. One of the regions is Bali. What makes Balinese Batik or Batik Bali special?

Brief Explanation If you searching for Batik Bali or Batik Denpasar, it will be the same. Denpasar is the capital of the island of Bali. The growing tourism industry in Bali makes the city of Denpasar as a center of business activity. Batik Bali is also a special attraction for foreign and local tourists.

The Function In Bali, Batik Bali uses for religious ceremonies or as a souvenir for tourists. Bali is a thousand Pura (Temples) island with many religious ceremonies related to Hinduism, which are Nyepi, Ngaben, Kuningan, Otonan, Purnama, and many more. This is one of the reasons why Bali is so unique and interesting in the eyes of the world.

Motif or Pattern The pattern of Batik Bali inspired by nature and the culture of Balinese people, such as fish, barong, frangipani flower, or many things related to Bali. Therefore, Balinese Batik makers become free to express their idea or feeling. This Batik also represents solidarity.

The Meaning Since there are so many patterns of Batik Bali, the meaning will be different according to its pattern. The first is the Batik Buketan. Buketan means a bunch of flowers. It got the influence of French. The motif is decorated with butterflies or birds to beautify the motif become aesthetic. The second is the fish-shrimp pattern which is called Ulamsari Mas. Why fish and shrimp? Most of the livelihoods of Balinese people are a fisherman. The third is the Barong pattern. If you have ever been to Bali, have you seen many motifs that are unique in Balinese summer clothes? Barong is the mythical creature believed by the Balinese. It can represent power and miracle. Last but not least is called Merak Abyorhokokai. Merak means peacock. From the name, you will know what the pattern is a peacock. This pattern of this Batik is the combination of peacocks and Sakura flowers. Yes, it got the influence of Japanese culture. There are so many patterns of Balinese Batik which will definitely make you want to buy it.

Many tourists buy Batik Bali as Bali Souvenirs or Souvenirs Denpasar. It will remind you of sweet memories when in Bali. Do not forget to put Batik Bali into your souvenir list.