AS far as annual showcases go, batik designer Tom Kenesi is always an artist to look forward to. Returning to the Namibia Craft Centre for ‘Mahangu Inspired Art’, this year, the founder of Indigenous Batik Designs has adorned the Omba Gallery in a prolific and particularly vibrant display of wall hangings, tablecloths and textiles.
Batik is a dyeing technique that originated in Java, Indonesia. Artisans draw dots and lines on fabric with hot wax which resists dyes. These dye resistant dots and lines allow the artist to create patterns and designs when the wax is removed.
The title of the exhibition refers to the modified batik technique employed at Kenesi’s working and teaching studio in Goreangab. Responding to the rising price of flour which Kenesi typically used to fashion designs, Kenesi additionally makes use of a mahangu paste to create the batiks, largely inspired by Namibia’s wildlife.
On a Saturday morning, as Tom’s wife Mercy watches over the pop-up shop, the wildlife is of particular delight to tourists who chatter appreciatively at the sight of guinea fowl, giraffe, zebras and more. While some only ask to take photographs, others choose items from a wealth of laptop bags, wallets, potholders, accessory and drawstring bags.
The latest addition to Indigenous Batik Design’s functional artworks is a line of t-shirts for adults and children. Kenesi’s batik design studio in Goreangab is also open for batik-making workshops which have proved popular among tourists as well as locals eager to learn how to create their own textiles and tablecloths.
As cheerful as ever, with the new laptop bag, cushion covers and t-shirt designs being of particular note, Kenesi’s ‘Mahangu Inspired Art’ pop-up shop and exhibition will be on display at the Namibia Craft Centre’s Omba Gallery until 30 September.
– martha@namibian.com.na; Martha Mukaiwa on Twitter and Instagram; marthamukaiwa.com
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