Padma Journals

October 2, 2024 in Art & Culture

Batik is a traditional Indonesian textile art known for its intricate designs. The process of creating batik is truly unique. First, hot wax is applied to the fabric in desired patterns using a tool called canting. The wax is placed on the areas we want to resist the dye, so when the cloth is submerged in it, the waxed sections remain untouched. This process can be repeated for multiple colours. Once finished, the wax is removed by boiling the fabric, to reveal the pattern. The fabric is then washed and ready to be worn.Different regions in Indonesia have developed their own batik patterns, and techniques. Some of the common designs include parang (diagonal dagger patterns), kawung (symmetrical oval shapes in a grid), sawat (Garuda wings), and megamendung (clouds), as well as floral. Each of these designs often carries deep cultural significance.Batik is a symbol of national pride in Indonesia, commonly worn as formal attire for important occasions such as weddings, official ceremonies, cultural events, and even government functions. In recent years, modern batik has expanded beyond the traditional wax-resist method, incorporating techniques like screen printing, stamping, and digital printing. These innovations allow for faster production while preserving batik's distinctive aesthetic.While traditional batik tulis (hand-drawn batik) and batik cap (stamped batik) are still highly valued as art forms for their craftsmanship, modern batik offers versatility, making it more adaptable to evolving fashion trends, traditional attire, home décor, and a variety of other applications. Around our hotels and resorts, you will find our modern interpretation of batik, with our logo integrated into staff uniforms, cushion covers, mugs, and more.In 2009, UNESCO recognised Indonesian batik as a significant piece of cultural heritage on an international level. Since then, Indonesians have celebrated National Batik Day every 2nd of October. On this day, and every Friday, people proudly wear batik, which has become an official dress code for offices and organisations. Do you have any batik shirts or dresses you wear to Indonesian events? Share your stories with us in the comments!Selamat Hari Batik Nasional!

September 4, 2024 in Art & Culture

We take pride in our rich culture and traditions and are dedicated to supporting them. Through our Padma Art & Culture segment on social media, we regularly feature local artisans and cultural events unique to each Padma Hotels location. Recently, our team from Resinda Hotel Karawang had the opportunity to visit the workshop of a Wayang Kulit (Shadow Puppet) artist.Wayang Kulit is particularly popular in Java and Bali. The term "Wayang" refers to the puppet, and "Kulit" means "leather" in Indonesian, indicating the material used. This traditional performance involves puppets casting shadows on a screen, accompanied by live gamelan music. The stories in Wayang Kulit often draw from ancient epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, presenting complex narratives, moral lessons, and a rich array of characters. Each region offers its own unique tales, contributing to the diversity and charm of the performances. These shows are not merely entertainment but are deeply rooted in Indonesian culture, often incorporating elements of spiritual and philosophical significance.Although this tradition may not appeal to younger generations as much, 29-year-old Ari Destian from Karawang stands out as a dedicated advocate for Wayang Kulit. His passion began in primary school, where he initially crafted puppets from paper. He later honed his skills in cutting and colouring leather to create intricate Wayang Kulit. The process of making Wayang Kulit typically starts with preparing the skin (commonly cow or buffalo skin), which is dried and then thinned. A basic pattern is then drawn on the skin, followed by shaping the pattern with special tools, colouring, and finally assembling the parts into a complete shadow puppet.Ari specialises in Wayang Kulit Cirebonan, a style from Cirebon, West Java. This type of Wayang Kulit is distinguished by its simplicity, vibrant colours, and traditional motifs. He hopes that Wayang Kulit will remain preserved and continue to be enjoyed by future generations.

June 1, 2024 in Art & Culture

As an Indonesian hotel brand with five properties across Indonesia, Padma Hotels takes pride in embodying its core principles of design, service, and locality. Evident in each hotel's modern contemporary style, impeccable service and unique facilities, each property reflects these values. Recently, four of its hotels: Padma Hotel Semarang, Padma Resort Legian, Padma Resort Ubud, and Padma Hotel Bandung partnered with Mata Angin agency to collaborate with talented local artists from Yogyakarta, Bali, and Bandung. Together, they created out-of-the-box illustrations adorning guest key cards and greeting cards, adding a touch of local flair and creativity to the guest experience.IndiguerillasInitiated at Padma Hotel Semarang, the collaboration project showcases the creative works of a Yogyakarta-based duo, Indiguerillas. Together, they created a modern contemporary version of Punakawan, infusing it with their unique artistic style. The selection of the Punakawan series stems from its status as one of the most renowned tales in Java. In the series, three Punakawan characters; Petruk Kanthong Bolong, Nala Gareng, and Bagong are depicted in a "jejogedan" pose, symbolising joy as they hold the key of Padma Hotel Semarang. This gesture serves as a heartfelt wish for guests to discover happiness and enjoy memorable experiences during their stay. Padma Hotel Semarang also proudly showcases numerous artworks by prominent artists in Indonesia’s art scene, such as Abstraksi Candi Borobudur by Wayan Novi, Dugderan by Angki Purbandono, and many more, welcoming guests with captivating pieces from the moment they step into the hotel.Kuncir Sathya Vikhu Drawing inspiration from the philosophy of the Punakawan tales, Kuncir Sathya Vikhu has embraced the Balinese rendition of the narrative. This adaptation seamlessly weaves in unique characters and iconic elements closely associated with Bali, home to Padma Resort Legian and Padma Resort Ubud. The first character, Sangut, embodies cheerful personality, depicted joyfully flying a kite against the backdrop of lush rice terraces. Then, there are Tualen and Merdah, pictured riding Bali’s iconic form of transportation, a scooter, as they embark on adventures exploring Bali's wonders. Lastly, we meet the mischievous Delem, captured surfing on big waves. "Surfing not only epitomises Bali's allure, but Delem's persona perfectly aligns with the thrill of conquering mighty waves," Viku reflects. Hailing from the Island of the Gods itself, Viku aspires to use his art as a way of introducing the rich culture and traditions of Bali to the world.Addy Debil In Bandung, Padma Hotel Bandung and Addy Debil have opted to reimagine the beloved wayang golek puppet character, Cepot. Known for its wit and humour, Cepot's character seamlessly complements Addy Debil’s playful, colourful, and imaginative style. Within his creations, Debil portrays Cepot engaged in three activities synonymous with Bandung: culinary adventures, shopping, and hiking. Debil has previously collaborated with Padma Hotel Semarang, infusing cheer and joy into the vibrant decor of Goolali Gelato Bar & Patisserie. Additionally, his creative touch extends to Goolali’s playful packaging, contributing to the excitement of #TravelwithGoolali trend.For more information regarding Padma Hotels properties, please visit www.padmahotels.com.