Batik, with its incomparable skill and aesthetics, is one of the cultural treasures that must be preserved. On 21 October 2023, De Karanganjar Mbatik was held as a grand celebration combining seminars and batik colouring competitions.
Acara ini bertujuan untuk mengenali jati diri serta mengapresiasi keindahan dari batik tutur khas Blitar. Tempat terselenggaranya acara ini adalah De Karanganjar Koffieplantage, sebuah lokasi yang tak hanya kental dengan aroma coffee, tetapi juga mendalam dalam warisan budaya.
De Karanganjar Mbatik began with a colouring activity which was attended by more than 300 elementary school students throughout Greater Blitar. The competition space was divided into three zones covering the Green House area (zone 1), Mushola area (zone 2), and Vredestuin area (zone 3). Each participant brought their own tools and equipment, given time until 13.00 WIB to be as creative as possible.
The children looked so focused and happy, trying to combine colours to create their best work. The batik colouring competition was not just a competition, but also a means of introducing the cultural heritage that they should proudly protect.
Meanwhile, at Balai Pitutur, three speakers played an important role in introducing the variety of Blitar batik to the participants. Beginning with remarks from the CEO of De Karanganjar Koffieplantage, Wima Brahmantya, who also acted as moderator, he expressed his hope that this batik day commemoration-themed event could be held on a larger scale in batik week in the coming years.
Kemudian seminar dilanjutkan oleh Bapak Miftah yang membuka sesi materi tentang “Batik Cakra Palah” dengan motif yang sebagian besar terinspirasi dari Candi Palah atau Candi Penataran. Sesi selanjutnya, Ibu Nining menyusul dengan materi “Batik Coffee” yang terinspirasi dari keberadaan Perkebunan Coffee De Karanganjar. Hingga sesi ketiga yang tak kalah menarik, Bapak Miki memaparkan tentang “Batik Tutur”, membawa para peserta lebih dekat dengan cerita dan filosofi yang tersemat di dalam setiap kain batik.
Seminar participants consisted of various groups, including batik activists throughout Greater Blitar, invitations from various tourist destinations in Blitar, sons and daughters of Blitar batik, and representatives from the Blitar District Education Office. The discussions and Q&A were highly interactive, indicating a deep appreciation for Blitar's diverse existence.
After the seminar and colouring competition, the event continued with lunch. Participants and visitors were able to enjoy a delicious meal while chatting, sharing their impressions of this unique experience.
The event culminated with great enthusiasm as the three batik presenters who had provided in-depth insights in the seminar also took on the role of judges for the colouring contest entries. Meticulously, they assessed each work, appreciating the detail and creativity displayed by the participants.
Shortly after, the winners of the batik colouring competition were announced. Six winners were proudly announced, ranging from first place to third runner-up. Cheers of happiness filled the air, reflecting the pride of the children and parents for the work that had been produced.
De Karanganjar Mbatik is not just about commemorating batik, but also about opening the door for Blitar's younger generation to love and preserve its rich culture. It is the beginning of a long journey in ensuring that the beauty of Blitar batik will continue to shine in Indonesia's cultural history.
By: Dwi Rahayu
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