Batik is one of the earliest known ways to decorate fabrics. Traditional methods use wax and dyes to produce an image. Batik images or effects are achieved through the principle of wax and water repelling each other, called resist dyeing.
African batik designs are often symbolic to the African culture, animals, village life, dancing and playing traditional instruments. The design can be as complicated or simple as the artist's desire.
Since batik is a method of painting a "negative space", the two Mozambique artists featured, have to envision the complete design in-between shapes and figures or draw the design on the fabric before starting the actual process.
The first step is to pour or paint hot wax on selected areas of the fabric and let it dry. Then the dye is applied to the un-waxed areas. With a series of dyeing, drying and waxing steps, the individual colors of the batik are applied. After the last application the fabric is hung up to dry. Then it is ironed between paper towels or newspapers to absorb the wax and reveal the vibrant colors and fine crinkle lines that give the batik additional character. The entire process of making a batik can take up to 2-3 days.
No batik will ever be the same. African wax batiks are made from 100% cotton. Framed or unframed, batiks with their gorgeous colors will enhance any room in your home or office.
African batiks are easily cared for. Simply sponge down with a damp cloth to keep them dust free. You may as well iron the reverse side on a very low temperature.
See our batik collection on www.worldtravelart.com
