This is one of two articles looking at the challenges facing the traditional batik art in Central Java. This piece
Passing on Traditions in Rindi, Sumba
I recently had a conversation with Tamu Rambu Hamu Eti in the royal compound of Prai Yawangu in Rindi, Sumba.
Umbu Kanabu Ndaung, 1965—2022
It is with such a heavy heart that I write that we have lost another tradition keeper. Umbu Kanabu Ndaung
A Promise in Sumba
Imagine waiting ten years to become engaged because you are the fourth child of a royal household and needed to wait for your older sisters to marry first. This was the case for the fourth daughter of Tamu Rambu Hamu Eti and her husband Umbu Kanabu Ndaung.
A Sense of Sumba
Being back in the field after two years, the sensory impact is sometimes overwhelming. Sights and tastes and smells. Horses,
A Baby’s Touching the Ground Ceremony
Across the archipelago, traditional communities have a ceremony that welcomes a newborn to the world, usually six or more weeks
Do No Harm, Nusa Penida
Nusa Penida off the east coast of Bali When we are working with communities, we are often reminded of the
News from Sulawesi, Timor, Sumba and Savu
We have great faith in the weavers and the strong relationships that we have built with them over the last
The Blues Brothers: Indigo dyers in central Java
The original artists working with Lou in Solo; the indigo dyer on the right has since retired Having been vaccinated,
Coming of Age in Bali’s Tenganan Pegeringsingan
Ayu is 12 years old and it is time for her coming of age ceremony Ayu has turned 12 and