Batik is a wax resistant dye technique used to create images and patterns on fabric. The art form originated in Indonesia and has been practiced there for centuries. Traditionally Batik is used in everyday life as well as in ceremonies and rituals. The Balinese people are often draped in colorful batik clothing. Recently Batik has been viewed as more of a fine art and showcased among paintings and sculptures. The basic process of Batik is simple. It consists of permeating an area of fabric with hot wax so that the wax resists the penetration of dye. However the technique of Batik is a demanding one. The Batik artist works intimately with color. If one wishes for a part to be light yellow, for example, all these parts need to be waxed at the same time before dying again. The colors in batik are very bright with a richness achieved by layering different pigments. In Batik each color used is significantly changed by the proceeding color. The batik artist must start with the lightest color and work toward the darkest color. The selection of wax is also an important part to the quality of the finished batik. Paraffin and bees wax are most commonly used in batik and are usually combined in different proportions depending on the amount of lines or “crackle” desired by the artist. Cotton is the best fabric to work with because it is easy to find and has a nice light weave. The fabric is then stretched lightly over a frame before any wax or dye is applied. I love the mystery and surprises involved in making batik. It is difficult to tell what the batik will look like until all the wax is removed from the fabric. The hot wax and dye play against each other in order to create interesting organic lines of their own.

My Batiks are all one of a kind original works.  The pieces you see in my gallery have already found a home. I would be happy to create you your own unique batik.  I will take into account pieces that you like and try to incorporate the same feelings, colors ect. Into your original.