World of YeoMama / Our Craft / Behind the Motifs
Our Craft
Behind the Motifs
“Batik is a beautiful art form deeply rooted in history and culture, and different individuals might have varying interpretations of what constitutes handmade batik. As long as the native batik communities YeoMama Batik closely collaborates with deem it that — whether it be handdrawn, hand stamped, or handprinted
— so do we, in honour of their craftsmanship.”
- Desleen Yeo, Founder of YeoMama Batik
Step into the enchanting world of batik, a painted treasure trove of culture and heritage. Beyond the physical artistry also lies a secret language of symbols, each one an intentional means of expressing personal stories and worlds. Back in the day, even the choice of materials acted like a royal dress code, setting nobility apart from the commoners.
Let's dive into some of the most beloved motifs below!
Mega Mendung
A Symbol of Calmness, Composure, and Poise
The Usual Suspects Motifs: Clouds
Shop our Cotton Candy print here
“Mega” symbolises the sun's brilliant rays, while “Mendung” is an Indonesian term denoting clouds covering the sun. Just as clouds offer respite from the sun's heat, the Mega Mendung motif exudes calmness, composure and wisdom even under challenging circumstances. Traditionally featuring shades of blue and red, today the Mega Mendung flaunts a vibrant spectrum, from sunny yellows to lush greens and regal purples.
Wear It:
When you want to invoke a sense of serenity and calm.
Also for everyday wear, celebrations and joyous occasions!
Kawung
A Symbol of Royalty, Authority and Power
The Usual Motifs: Repetitive, intercrossing circles
Shop our Rainbow Lapis print here
Meet the Kawung, one of the oldest known patterns. Showcasing a geometric design, this motif is a mashup of four circles surrounding a central, smaller circle. Over time, it has been imbued with diverse interpretations, with some saying it symbolises a centre of power governing their subjects, and others swearing that it is inspired by the sugar palm fruit’s seeds. Either way, the Kawung's versatility steals the show!
Wear It:
Perfect for formal and cultural occasions, or when you just want to feel positively royal (;
Parang
A Symbol of Strength, Resilience and Protection
The Usual Motifs: Daggers, Waves
Whether it's echoing the rhythm of ocean waves or drawing inspiration from the Keris dagger, the Parang motif embodies strength, power, courage, healing and protection. As time passed, the Parang motif evolved into different styles as it found its way into modern art forms and fashion — like so, in our take on this motif in our Dreamland print! However, to this day, the Parang Barong motif remains a symbol of exclusivity, i.e. off-limits for ordinary folks to wear when entering the palace.
Wear It:
When you need to kill it and need an extra shot of confidence and courage!
Also for formal occasions or significant life events.
Sekar Jagad
A Symbol of Beauty in Diversity, Love and Harmony
The Usual Motifs: Flowers, Island-like Segments
View our Blue Island print here
Ever noticed batik prints with island-like shapes? That’s the Sekar Jagad. Each “island” is often adorned with distinct patterns such as animals, mountains, and rain, creating a visual tale of diversity. “Sekar” also translates into “flowers”, and in Indonesian culture, these symbolise beauty and love, making this motif a beacon of peace, harmony, happiness, luck and prosperity… all fair reasons why it was (and still is) often a popular choice for couples embarking on the journey of marriage!
Wear It:
When you feel like radiating your inner grace, peace, and positivity into the world around you.
Also for celebrations, festivals and joyous occasions!
