WA.RI.SAN

We named this batik motif, “WARISAN”. This is because batik is a heritage and a nation's treasure that has been used by our ancestors in past generations. The inspiration behind this batik motif is a turtle, symbolizing longevity, endurance, persistence, and continuation of life. It suitably represents the millennials nowadays who have endured many challenges in order to achieve success. The star-like shape in the middle represents hope, motivating millennials to achieve their goals. What surrounds it, are spiky thorns, representing challenges that millennials will have to face despite their passionate desire to achieve their dreams. The circular shape which looks similar to “tanglung” represents Chinese culture while the octagon shape symbolizes Malay culture and the lotus depicts Indian culture. The meaning of these motifs exhibits the three largest cultures in Malaysia. Although Malaysians have different skin colors, their goals remain the same and when united as one, they can achieve those dreams together. The outer layer of the shell represents a maze, delineating the millennial’s confusion and ease in getting lost on their journey to achieving their goals. They are required to find a way out so that a better future can be attained. The inspiration behind mixing the motifs of parametric and regular geometric shapes which is done in a way that the turtle’s legs and head blend in with the background but are differentiated from the shell is from popular arts and crafts in the millennial era. The motifs sought a spiritual connection with the surrounding environment, both natural and man-made. The colors used are both warm and cold which indicates the ups and downs of millennial’s life, inspiring them to live their life colorfully.

 

This batik motif consists of 3 main design elements which are; line, shape, color, and texture with 4 main design principles such as pattern, emphasis, balance, and harmony. There are several types of lines utilized in this motif like horizontal, vertical, straight, curved, thick, and thin lines. Also, there are different types of 2D shapes, varying in sizes, used in this design such as octagons, circles, trapeziums, and irregular polygons for geometric shapes. Meanwhile, organic shapes are employed for the lotus, star, and maze. Its texture is rough, thick, and bulky. There are a few repeated patterns like, irregular polygons, circular shapes, and the outer layer of the turtle shell which is in trapezium shape. The unique appearance of the turtle is emphasized in a way that attracts the viewer’s attention with its size and distinct weight of elements used. Repetition of the same elements in the turtle shell creates a symmetrical balance where the arrangement of the patterns is in harmony, giving out the feeling that all parts of the piece form a coherent value. 

 

Generally, the motif characterizes the meaning of millennials having to unite with each other to endure environmental obstacles around them and to preserve their nation’s treasure which is slowly getting forgotten by newer generations. Furthermore, it encourages them to follow their dreams of creating a better generation.