We’re very pleased to have accomplished this A-Z of Archipelago collection. After a thorough research and uncountable design experiments, this side-project took us a little more than 10 years to finish. Along the way, there’re a lot of rearrangements of ornaments which represent the 26 letters because we would like to have the right variation to best personify our archipelago without any emphasize on certain ethnic/culture.
Indonesia is known as wealthy nation, from the striking nature with abundant resources to the diverse culture and people. Each only resonates our nation’s wealth. Being at the heart of a vast network of trading routes for centuries, Indonesia has absorbed various foreign influences where we inherited a wealth of cultural symbolism. The symbolism represents expression of spiritual and cultural values – one of the most sophistication of culture.
We can see these symbols applied as exquisite patterning on textile, architectural details and other items of practical use. The specific embellishment are telling us many things including the cultural area, the technical method, the social use and other related meaning. Such as Lokcan pattern from Tuban, East Java, which is ornamented with Chinese phoenix bird as an emblem of beauty; and valuable double-weave Patola silk out of Gujerat is well known as prestigious inter-island trade during Dutch colony. Some patterns even have ceremonial/religious functions, or indicate the power/status of the owner. For example, Aso or dog-dragon head motif of upper Mahakam entitled only to high nobility members. Those glorious traditions to ethnic craft are testimony to cultural diversity of Indonesia and superlative craftsmanship.
Such adoration comes as an inspiration for this A-Z of Archipelago collection. Consists of carefully selected ornamental motifs displaying the heritage of Indonesian patterns, this collection is meant to be used for all occasions blank cards where we combine the fine patterning, modern colors and the latest printing technology. Furthermore, besides a collection of ready to use blank cards, we also want to share these symbolical ornaments with everyone. It will be available in CD soon and anyone can use it for initial, poster or other graphic materials. Just call Eva at 7199676 to pre-order the CD with a special price and get the card collection.
