Batik Demonstration with Agus Ismoyo and Nia Fliam

Join Agus Ismoyo and Nia Fliam from leading Indonesian batik studio, Brahma Tirta Sari (Yogyakarta) for a demonstration of the steps to create Indonesian batik textiles.

In this demonstration, Ismoyo and Nia will share the traditional wax-resit cloth dyeing process of Batik along with the living cultural tradition of Batik. Audiences are invited to drop in over the course of the demonstration to observe and ask questions.

Ismoyo and Nia developed their batik practices in Yogyakarta, Indonesia in the 1980s. Their work draws on the long tradition of wax-resist cloth dyeing in this region an incorporates the motifs and techniques of the empu (master) batik artists.

In 1994, the pair visited Urapuntja/Utopia, Central Australia. During this visit, Ismoyo and Nia met senior Anmatyerr artist, Emily Kam Kngwarray. This visit led to an ongoing relationship with Utopia Art Centre and together Brahma Tirta Sari Studio and Urapuntja Artists Utopia have produced a number of collaborative batik artworks, including two works in the National collection.

Celebrating the rich heritage of ancient batik textile techniques and the expansive cultural traditions of Indonesia, Agus Ismoyo and Nia Fliam contemporary practice includes collaboration, cultural exchange and teaching.

This demonstration is part of a series of public programs focused on Batik in the practice of senior Anmatyerr artist, Emily Kam Kngwarray, as part of the extensive survey exhibition currently on display.

Emily Kam Kngwarray is one of the world’s most significant contemporary painters to emerge in the twentieth century. The exhibition brings together the most important works of Emily Kam Kngwarray oeuvre, from early vibrant batik textiles to later monumental paintings on canvas.

The exhibition, Emily Kam Kngwarray is on display from 2 Dec – 28 Apr 2024. It is a ticketed exhibition.

Free, book a ticket to drop in during the morning session (10.30–11.30am) or afternoon session (2–4pm).