The application of batik block motifs and marbling technique as pattern designs in contemporary batik

• Main Authors: Marzuki, Ibrahim, Noor Hafiza, Ghazali, Wan Soliana, Wan Md Zain
• Format: Conference or Workshop Item
• Language: English; English
• Published: 2021
• Subjects: ND Painting; NX Arts in general
• Online Access: http://eprints.unisza.edu.my/4816/1/FH03-FRIT-20-49400.pdf; http://eprints.unisza.edu.my/4816/2/FH03-FRIT-21-55065.pdf; http://eprints.unisza.edu.my/4816/
• Institution: Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin

Marbling is a pattern design created using inks that can float on the surface of water. The marbling technique is based on forming patterns on the surface of a liquid by manipulating floating paints. This pattern design possesses its own aesthetical value, that is the uniqueness of marbling pattern itself. Marbling can only be created once; it could not be repeated to recreate the same pattern for the second time. This is due to the influence of factors like the movement of air, water, and dye. Marbling was first introduced in 12th century Japan. It was known as "suminagashi"or inks floating on water surface that resulted in circular patterns. In the 15th century, the marbling technique started to flourish in Turkey and Persia, where it was known as "ebru"or "cloud art". Apart from inks, other materials involved in marbling creation includes oil paint and 'goughe'. The marbling technique continues to develop and reaches the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Holland, and Italy around the 17th century. The researcher combined two techniques to create marbling, namely the creation of block batik through the use of wax and marbling pattern design using reactive dye, that is remazol dye mixed with alginate that functions as a dye movement control agent. Block batik (batik terap) or (batik pukul) is one of Malaysia's renown traditional craft. It is created through waxing and dyeing. Batik production in Malaysia expanded in the 15th century. Its fame started in the East Coast states, namely Kelantan and Terengganu. The research founds that by combining marbling and block batik motifs, a new design in batik production process can be achieved. Marbling patterns were created on a silicate surface that replaced water. The silicate cured the resulting colour and pattern. From the research , it was found that silks and cottons are the most suitable for accurate dye and pattern absorption. This material could produce vibrant and orderly colours. In addition, marbling works splendidly with craft items and interior design decorations like curtains and pillowcases. The application of marbling on block batik motifs was found to be practical for entrepreneurs and students who wishes to enhance creativity in batik production. However, a continuous research is needed to simplify the process and technique for marbling and block batik production. The researcher has come up with a new application by combining block batik technique and marbling in contemporary batik creation.