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Batik Gallery


Store, Istria	kamiros ruins	Waterfall, Sark	Hog's Back	St Agnes Isle	Rhoscolyn


Showers,Cuillins	Gondolas	Scottish Beach	Cornfield, France	Rock Pools, Hilbre
		'Medulin' and 'Red Rocks' are my latest batiks. Click for larger images.
Medulin	Red Rocks

Click on ' Store, Istria', 'Showers, Cuillins' and 'Rock Pools, Hilbre' for larger images.

What is Batik?

Batik is an ancient art originating in Java where it is still an integral part of daily life. Batik is made by applying a succession of designs in wax, each application resisting a different dye colour. Molten wax is applied directly onto the fabric using the 'tjanting', a traditional pen-like tool.

I have adapted the traditional techniques to my own, unique style. I paint the dye on with brushes and remove the wax at the end of the process by ironing and steaming. Due to their subtle, detailed application people often think my batiks are watercolours. Skies are painted as a whole, then 'blocked' by the wax. Other parts of the landscape may have up to six applications of dye with the darkest undiluted dyes painted last. The traditional 'crackle' of batik is kept to a minimum and created at the end of the process by selectively crushing the waxed silk. Silk has wonderful reflective qualities which help to create a glowing vibrancy and translucence in my work.

The finished batiks are carefully stretched on acid-free board and then framed professionally for exhibition. Commissions are welcome and pictures can be supplied unframed if desired, cutting costs considerably. Please contact me for details of the sizes and prices of batiks in the gallery. Further editions of these originals can also be commissioned, with each edition having slight differences in tones. If you wish to view a batik in closer detail, a larger image can be sent by e-mail attachment.

After discussing a purchase, payment may be made by credit card using Paypal.