Dewi, Coming Forth

Imagine a garden. Soothing to the soul, a sight to behold. 

Butterflies fill this entire batik piece. Classically, these insects are synonymous with purity. A butterfly emerging from its cocoon. A state of being reborn. The colour white symbolises the Javanese’s spiritual nature and the qualities they take to heart: honesty, love and forgiveness. 

Meanwhile, the kawung motif borders this batik lengthwise. As a symbol of community, it adds a deeper layer to the overall meaning of this art. Perhaps it is an ode to the beautiful outcomes of community and kinship. No man is an island. A pair of hands may tend to a garden, but many hands together make a beautiful one. And while a community is not without its faults, love and forgiveness can make them emerge stronger.