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BATIK BARFI

Batik is an art created from observation of our surroundings. Usually, batik motifs are inspired by patterns on flora and fauna. Nonetheless, Batik may also be an abstraction of various geometrical shapes to emulate unique and joyful appearance.

In embracing our traditions of Batik, I have chosen to celebrate it through festive food that represents the diverse cultures of Malaysia. Specifically, barfi - a dense milk-based sweet cuisine, staple in the Indian household. The name of Barfi comes from the Persian word "barf" which means snow due to its appearance. Existing in many different types, flavours and textures, Barfi inspires the robustness and diversity of visual elements in the Batik pattern. Some varieties include besan barfi, kaaju barfi, pista barfi and sing barfi. There are three types of barfi which I chose to be in this pattern which are chocolate barfi, carrot barfi (gajar barfi) and dates barfi (khajur barfi).

During Deepavali festivities, barfi is a compulsory dish which symbolizes happiness and excitement of light festival. Emulating the spirit, Batik Barfi aspires to bring joy and meaning. Labelled as the ‘Indian energy bar’ due to its healthy ingredients - nuts, fruits and flour - the pattern attempts to echo the energy to the viewers; from the eyes to the mind, heart and soul.

In this motif, the variety of shapes and juxtaposition create a visual richness that represents abundance and prosperity in Indian culture. The rhombus shape exist in various proportions creating a sense of direction and luxe aesthetics. They are juxtaposed alongside circular geometries with some curvature offset around them which translates the soft and crunchy textures of barfi. Geometrical collisions of combined shapes such as squares and rectangles create a visual transformation throughout the pattern, signifying a sense of unity. Philosophically, it visually unites the viewers regardless skin colours, religions, and races to create a better world for humankind through art appreciation.

Harmony in this pattern is achieved through the application of several ordering principles - hierarchy, datum, axis and symmetry - organised in a linear fashion. Such order emphasize the geometrical diversity in the motif that would translate to endless manipulations as a pattern.

The colour scheme includes yellow ochre, medium yellow and brown hues, with the intended effect of the Optical Art movement. The colour gradient creates a sense of dynamism and an impression of movement; a flashing and vibrating pattern. The longer you look at it, the more you will feel it. Such element of surprise and excitement resonates with the impulsive and adventurous energy of millennials. Relating to the cohesive spirit of millennials in embracing today’s fast-paced and uncertain world, the complexity of the geometry also provides a representation of togetherness with a sense of mystery.