Talents Global Design Awards by HONOR

As an Indonesian Chinese hailing from the beautiful city of Malang, my cultural heritage has always played a significant role in shaping my identity. Growing up, I was deeply fascinated by the rich tapestry of traditions that intertwined within my family. This unique blend of Indonesian and Chinese cultures was a constant source of inspiration for me.

As a child, I would sit with my parents, listening to their stories about each zodiac animal and its unique characteristics. They would show me beautifully illustrated books and paintings that brought these creatures to life, and I was enchanted by the symbolism and lore surrounding them. Ever since, I became captivated by the idea of creating a stunning fusion of cultures by incorporating these symbols into traditional Indonesian batik, a craft deeply rooted in the culture of my homeland.

As a freelance batik designer, myself, embarking on this creative journey was nothing short of challenging. It demanded a substantial amount of time and dedication to craft batik patterns that seamlessly incorporated the twelve Chinese zodiac animals. Each animal had to be rendered intricately, with every detail meticulously attended to, and imbued with its own unique symbolism.

The result was a breath-taking collection of batik designs that told a story of cultural convergence. The dragon represented power and strength, the rooster symbolized courage, and the snake embodied wisdom. Each animal, meticulously rendered in the vibrant colours of traditional Indonesian batik, carried the essence of both my Indonesian roots and Chinese heritage. They became a representation of my personal journey, bridging the gap between my Indonesian and Chinese identities. Through this artistic endeavour, I found a way to celebrate and preserve the beautiful complexities of my cultural heritage, sharing it with the world through the universal language of art and design.