We worked with the programming team to design and develop an interactive section in this exhibition which showcased natural dyes from with three dye plants that we grow in our studio. Placed side by side, the swatches of naturally and synthetically dyed fabrics sensitize viewers to the contrast between both dyeing methods. As part of this collaboration, we made the illustrations of the dye plants, combining pressed plant samples from our garden with digital illustrations of the plants. The style was inspired by the drawings featured in William Farquher’s collection of natural history drawings. We also produced the dye samples (indigo dye sample made by Felix @goodriddance_sg), and worked with Tony from aNERDgallery to procure the textile samples from artisans in Indonesia.

The “Batik Nyonyas” exhibition explores the lives and works of three generations of batik masters – Nyonya Oeij Soen King, Nyonya Oeij Kok Sing, and Jane Hendromartono. The exhibition reveals how each became a batik master in her own right, and how they responded to the rapid political, cultural, and economic changes of their times to run a business that produced great art.