Art & Craft — Batik, Gamelan, Wayang

Indonesia has some of the richest art traditions in the world — several are recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage:

Batik — UNESCO World Heritage

Batik is much more than a pretty pattern on fabric — it is a philosophical art form, where patterns are applied to cotton with hot wax and then dyed. The patterns have meaning: The Parang pattern (diagonal lines) was once reserved for the king, Kawung (circles) symbolizes purity, Mega Mendung (clouds) from Cirebon stands for patience. In 2009, Batik was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage. On October 2nd (Hari Batik Nasional), all Indonesians wear Batik.

Gamelan

Gamelan is the traditional ensemble orchestra of Java and Bali — a hypnotic interplay of bronze metallophones, gongs, drums, and bamboo flutes, creating one of the most unique sounds in world music. Claude Debussy was so fascinated by Gamelan that he incorporated it into his compositions. In Yogyakarta, you can experience Gamelan performances at the Kraton (Sultan's Palace) — free and authentic.

Wayang — Shadow Puppet Theater

Wayang Kulit (leather shadow play) is a tradition over 1,000 years old: A Dalang (puppeteer) tells stories from the Ramayana or Mahabharata all night long by moving intricate leather puppets behind an illuminated screen. The Dalang voices all the characters, conducts the Gamelan orchestra, and improvises for hours. A performance begins in the evening and lasts until the early morning — a monumental performance art experience. UNESCO-recognized since 2003.

Wood Carving

The Asmat in Papua, the Toraja in Sulawesi, and the Dayak in Kalimantan are famous for their wood carving art — from tiny Tau-Tau figures to monumental totem poles. However, the most renowned wood carving comes from Jepara (Central Java), where intricate furniture and decorations have been carved from teak wood since the 16th century.