Batik Panel c. 20th century

This batik panel, made by an anonymous artist, presents a mesmerising pattern of small flowers and leaves across its surface. The method used is just so captivating; molten wax is dripped onto the fabric, creating intricate designs. It's like drawing with hot glue, but with dye! The colors feel so warm and earthy, with a sort of golden hue to the background. Up close, you see a mosaic of texture, with layers upon layers of wax and dye creating tiny imperfections and variations. It's in these imperfections that the magic happens. Notice how the leaves curve around the flowers in their own unique way. The whole piece is just a reminder that artmaking is a process, not a perfect end product. I find myself thinking of Anni Albers, with her focus on textile as a high art form, when I look at this piece. Ultimately, it reminds me that art is about conversations, that cross cultures and time.