FINALIST 01

VAPA BATIK

Batik is an art medium on textile originating from the Nusantara region. Traditionally batik patterns were mostly floral and leaf motifs in accordance with the Islamic teachings that emphasizes on flora as one of the element. However, batik patterns have evolved from flora to geometric patterns following the trend of youngsters currently who are keen toward minimalist designs.

This particular batik pattern design is inspired by a local Indian cuisine. As fashion, being one of the forms of art expression; batik design would be the best way in promoting the tradition of other races in Malaysia without having to diminish the medium or techniques used in producing such traditional textile, while sustaining local art by using geometric elements and bright colours.

This ‘Vapa Batik’ is inspired by the famous Indian cuisines, Vada Pav. The circle shape is represents the pav,while the triangle represents chillies and rectangle represents vada .Vada pav is a vegetarian fast food consisting of deep-fried potato dumpling placed inside a bun and accompanied with chutney and green chili pepper.

The selected section include different types of shapes and lines intended to portray excitement in the batik pattern. From the result of section traced, it is then geometricized into basic geometric shapes (circle, triangle, rectangle and square) to attain a fixed shape. This pattern represents the millennial by its minimalist style. The pure shapes,when organised in a grid order creates a richiness in geometry while maintaining the integrity of basic shapes shows the minimalist concept that is universal and versatile,proper for a wide range of occasions.

The element of architecture fused into the design are the juxtaposition and layering of points and lines.The repetition of circles in different sizes are defined by layers of lines juxtaposed with each other,creating a rhythmic order. The combination and unity of the overlapping circle shapes expresses movement. Different sizes of the square shapes compose a single, unifying element where different objects are arranged. The intended unified movement of all the elements and motifs produces a harmonious movement in rhythm. The batik pattern has the uniqueness of each section that is arranged in a linear organisation in order to form a clear, calm movement culminating a pleasing effect to the whole batik pattern design.

Most of the batik motif in the market are made based on organic shapes and has an ornamental style in it. This motif is unique as it boasts pure geometrical shapes and yet expresses the organic richiness of visual configuration.Furthermore,it adds a modern vibe which identifies with the dynamic trend of millennials. Traditionally,batik motifs are derived from vegetal or floral subjects.The fact that this motif is derived from food emulates the spirit of millennial out-of-the-box thinking.

Traditional identity,universal aesthethics.The art of batik is an essence of Malaysian culture.The minimalist concept combines the appeal of universal aesthetics crafted by traditional techniques.We are encouraging fresh interpretations of local cultural identity,empowering millennials to advance with a strong sense of belonging.Here,design is truly a universal language.