ACEH – The Aceh Superior and Great Youth Program (AMANAH) has initiated a significant step in the preservation and development of Acehnese batik culture by holding a Batik Creation Training at Rumoh Batik Malaka, Aceh Besar Regency, from August 23 to 26, 2024.
This activity was attended by the local youth, ranging from batik artisans to students from Syiah Kuala University (USK) in Banda Aceh, marking a multi-generational collaboration in preserving cultural heritage.
One of the participants, Qurratun Aini from Sanggar Ceudah Rupa, shared her inspiring experience about how she learned natural dyeing techniques and created her own traditional motifs during the training.
“Yesterday I saw how to use natural dyes. Then, today I drew patterns on fabric and also did some canting and painting there.” “I’m happy to gain new knowledge,” said Qurratun.
Qurratun, who has been involved in the batik industry since last year, emphasizes the importance of innovation within tradition through the creation of the ‘banana heart’ motif that she designed to align with the practicality of the canting technique.
“My own banana heart motif. The banana heart motif was chosen because it is simpler to create.” “It’s not quite complete (the motif),” he said.
Participants in this training also had the opportunity to try their hand at batik stamping techniques, using designs that won in the online batik design competition organized by AMANAH. In addition to drawing and batik, they focus on the application of natural dyes on fabric, which has become a new learning point for many young artisans in the area.
“Thank you for being willing to teach the technique of natural coloring.” “I hope this can further help in developing the local batik industry through continuous training like this,” Qurratun said, appreciating AMANAH.
This activity not only serves as a platform to enrich the skills of the participants but also as a strategic space to promote innovation in batik coloring and design.
The collaboration between AMANAH, Rumpun Consulting, the Regional Craft Council (Dekranasda) of Aceh Besar, and USK Banda Aceh in this training demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting and developing the creative industry in Aceh.
This activity is expected to serve as a catalyst for the younger generation of Aceh to continue developing and exploring the great potential within the local batik cultural heritage.
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