‘Roman Muka’ Textile Exhibition Unfolds at Masa Masa

Discover Indonesia’s rich tapestry of textiles in the latest exhibition held at Masa Masa. ‘Roman Muka’ brings a particular focus to the ‘embellishments’ of traditional textiles, showcasing examples from across the archipelago, from Sumatra to Timor and of course here in Bali.

Opening for public on 20 July 2024, Roman Muka brings forth yet another lens in which to appreciate Indonesian heritage. The exhibition is a collaboration between Pithecanthropus, a fashion brand inspired by traditional Indonesian textiles, and Tjok Istri Ratna Cora Sudharsana, a researcher, designer, and lecturer at ISI Denpasar’s Fashion Studies program.

The term ‘Roman Muka’ translates to ‘facial expression’, and in the context of textiles refers to the decorative and embellishment techniques, from adding gold leaf and thread, embroidery, specific weaving methods, giving each textile their unique motifs and identity. Adding to that theme, the exhibition will also feature a collection of traditional accessories and jewellery.

The archives presented include: Songket techniques from Minangkabau, Palembang, Bali, and East Sumba; Buna fabric from Timor; Minang embroidery, combining Minang values and natural elements with Indian and Chinese techniques; West Sumatra embroidery used for textiles and wedding decorations; Tapis from Lampung, an heirloom fabric embroidered with silver or gold threads. Gold-layered fabrics from Lasem and Bali: Batik and gold-layered fabrics from these regions are curated by Pithecanthropus and Tjok Istri Ratna Cora Sudharsana. Finally, Bali textiles from Tjok Istri Ratna Cora Sudharsana’s Archive: This includes a corner dedicated to her collection of Balinese textiles like songket and traditional ider-ider, as well as furniture.

Roman Muka opens at 6pm on Saturday, 20 July 2024, featuring performances from Kerta Art and DJ Tandunz. The exhibition runs until 1 September 2024. Exhibition viewing is free of charge, though reservation may be required for those looking to enjoy the performances on the opening night. 

Aside from exhibitions, curatorial talks, a jewellery making workshop, Pasar Merdeka is also part of this exhibition series. 

Curatorial Talk: Unraveling the Threads
10am – 12pm on Saturday, 10 Aug 2024
Priced at IDR 85,000

Pasar Merdeka: Art, craft, and food market
10am to 8pm on Saturday and Sunday, 17-18 Aug 2024

Jewellery Workshop: Playing with Beads and Knots
10am to 12pm on Saturday, 31 Aug 2024
Priced at IDR 500,000

Masa Masa (9am – 10pm daily)
Jl. Subak Telaga I No.9, Ketewel, Gianyar
0819 4630 5122
@masamasabali