From the Artist:
My journey as a plant and fiber artist began here in Stockton on the Bayaca family farm. Growing up, I was inspired by many objects of nature to draw and use color. Plant fibers were abundant but most prominent was the Manila hemp rope used to secure crates of produce. This rope provided an opportunity to learn about natural fibers. Hemp has the unique characteristic of expansion under tension, and when released of tension, the rope contracts back to its resting state. This versatility makes an already resilient fiber stronger. Manila hemp is my gateway fiber. It opened my mind to understanding the many applications of fiber such as fabric, which led me to the batik process.
Batik is an ancient art, as evidenced in first-century Egyptian tombs and other parts of the world; the Middle East, India, Central Asia and Africa. Today it is practiced world wide, but is especially accomplished in Asia. In Ukraine, Easter eggs are also decorated with melted wax and dyes.
The word "Batik" is of Indonesian origin, from "ambatik," referring to "dots" or spots of wax on cloth dipped into dye. Wax resists dye, therefore, batik is a resist technique. The process involves repeated waxing and dyeing until the design is completed. It is work intensive, but the result is worth the effort.
“Go with the flow” is a good way to describe the process, as the artist must move quickly, in rhythm with the flow of hot melted wax. The fluid nature of the wax as it cools and the overlaying of successive dyes produce a unique one-of-a-kind design on cloth. No two pieces can be exactly the same, each piece is truly original.
The signature of melted wax on contemporary batik is the same as on works from more than two thousand years ago. Some things simply do not change. The art of batik has stood the test of time.
The Stockton Art League provides a forum for local artists to work and exhibit art at the Elsie May Goodwin Gallery. This is a very special place to view art, to learn about art, and to share creative energy. For this, I am very grateful.
Also, I would like to especially thank Jessica Fong, Director of the Stockton Art League for keeping SAL and the Goodwin alive by meeting all challenges including COVID. Thank you.
As an artist, I hope to share this joyful journey of fiber and color. Please enjoy the view.
Theresa Bayaca, Plant and Fiber Artist
[email protected]
