Of Javanese origins, this technique has found its popularity in Singapore , especially at the Malay Heritage Centre. The term comes from an old Javanese word which means “ to dot ”. Since the 12 th century, this basic concept of using wax and dye has been really popular with Singaporean locals, as well as foreign visitors.
The use of Canting and wax creates a resist method on the fabric, when it is drawn free-hand on cotton or silk. These smooth lines prevent the dye from penetrating the other areas of the piece. Some other techniques used are:
Cracking Method
This method involves the brushing of wax onto a piece of cloth/silk. When it is dry, it is then crushed and soaked in dye, hence allowing dye to penetrate into the cracked lines. In olden days, only darker coloured dyes are used at this stage. After drying, a second layer of cracking wax is applied to the coloured piece and then painted once more. This effect allows for greater exploration of colours and design.
Absorption Method
This method involves the use of materials like tissues, rock, salt, etc. For example, when tissues are used, it will be spread unevenly on the Batik piece and water is then added to the different parts of the piece. Next, when dye is added or dotted, it will seep into the wrinkles of the tissue, creating a jagged effect. This effect allows for greater exploration of colours, design and imagination.
(1hr or 2hrs)
The 1hr programme starts off with a demo of Canting and painting of the piece. Participants will then paint on a pre-waxed piece for a hands-on experience.
The 2hr programme will allow participants to explore the introductory experience of Batik, and will also have a chance to work on Canting, Cracking Method and/or Absorption Method.
(5 sessions)
This workshop welcomes beginners, as well as individuals/groups who have had experience in Batik painting. These workshops comprise of the Beginner Workshop and the Advanced Workshop.
Sessions are conducted in One week with duration of about 2 – 5hrs per session, depending on participant's interest and availability.
Please enquire for Workshop availability and prices.
Pottery is the ceramic ware made by potters. It is made by forming a clay figure into objects of specific form or shape and heating them to high temperatures in a Kiln to cause changes which will harden, strengthen and set the clay in its form.
It is believed that the earliest pottery wares were fired in bonfires, and were hand-built. Unlike today, early bonfire-fired wares were shaped with rounded bottoms, as sharp angles would be susceptible to cracking. The earliest constructed kilns were pit-kilns, which were holes dug in the ground and covered with fuel, which provided better insulation and control over firing.
Clay, differing in moisture content would be used in different methods and processes in producing the final form. It can be classified into 5 different clay stages;
Plastic – name of clay that is very moist and malleable
Leatherhard – condition of clay with a tough feel, but is still moist
Greenware – clay with very little moisture but has not been fired
Bisqueware – clay with no moisture and has been fired
Glazeware – clay which has been glazed and fired again
At the Malay Heritage Centre, you will have a chance to be guided by notable Artists with years of experience in this field. Led by highly-regarded ceramist, Mr Iskandar Jalil; other recognized potters include Mr Abu Bakar Abdulla, Ms Tan Gek Lin, Mr Ahmad Abu Bakar, Dr Suriani Suratman and Ms Tan Xiao Hong.
Each Artist displays their unique character and style which is portrayed in their works of art. Hence, a combination of such talented Artists will only yield an array of interesting workshops conducted by the Artist and technique of your choice, at the Malay Heritage Centre. Some of the workshops would include techniques like;
Hand-building ; The earliest and most direct forming method. This method allows for great exploration of individuality and better control of size and shape of the final product. Techniques like coiling and slab-building can also be used together or separately in creating a pottery piece.
Throwing ; Involves the use of the potter's wheel and rapid rotation of the turntable, where a ball of clay is pressed and pulled gently upwards and outwards into a hollow shape.
Sessions are conducted as per Artists' schedules and availability.
Please enquire for Artists' schedules, Workshop availability and fees.
