A Heritage in Wax and Dye: The Story of Sanggar Batik Katura, Trusmi’s Batik Icon

The rhythmic sounds of canting pens dripping hot wax onto cloth echo through the batik workshop of Sanggar Batik Katura (UD Katura), a heritage business nestled in the heart of Trusmi, Cirebon. It is here that the late Katura, an internationally recognized batik artisan, spent his life weaving artistry with identity. Although Katura passed away on March 16, 2024, at the age of 72, his legacy endures as vibrant as the patterns he once painted.

A Tradition Passed Down Through Generations

The origins of UD Katura can be traced back to Trusmi’s ancient traditions, where batik-making has been a way of life for centuries. For Katura, batik was more than a livelihood—it was a calling rooted in generations of craft. Born on December 15, 1952, he grew up immersed in Trusmi’s batik culture. “Batik adalah karya seni rupa pada kain,” he often said, underscoring its intricate, labor-intensive nature.

By the age of 11, Katura was already learning the art under his parents’ tutelage. In 1974, he took a bold step to formalize the family craft, founding UD Katura. His workshop became known for its unparalleled precision and adherence to traditional techniques. “Asale sih cung, bukan pilihan tapi pelestarian,” Katura remarked during an interview, emphasizing his responsibility to preserve this heritage.

Artistry that Speaks to the World

Katura’s dedication to authentic craftsmanship did not go unnoticed. By the 1990s, his batik designs had captivated audiences far beyond Indonesia. His works were not only sought after in the domestic market but also introduced to Japan, where they were transformed into elegant kimonos—a cultural bridge connecting two artistic traditions.

This global reach was bolstered by his openness to international collaboration. Over the years, his workshop (sanggar) welcomed scholars and designers from Germany, the Netherlands, and Japan, eager to learn about the meticulous techniques of Cirebonese batik. His enduring partnerships brought prestige to UD Katura and Trusmi as a whole.

The Fight Against Intellectual Property

One of Katura’s most passionate stances was his opposition to intellectual property laws for batik. He believed that batik was a communal cultural heritage and should not be subject to monopolization by individuals or corporations. “Batik adalah warisan budaya dunia,” he said, referring to its status as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Katura’s view was deeply personal. He recalled how, in the late 1980s, attempts to copyright certain batik motifs led to significant disputes among artisans. Some were even summoned to the police for alleged copyright infringements. “Hak cipta itu membunuh kreativitas dan semangat warisan. Bagaimana warisan bisa diwariskan jika dimonopoli?” he argued.

Instead, Katura championed the idea of open access to batik designs, allowing artisans to build on shared cultural motifs while preserving the integrity of the craft. His perspective emphasized collaboration over competition, making him a respected figure among traditional artisans.

The Family’s Role in Preserving a Legacy

Since Katura’s passing, his family has steadfastly carried forward his vision. His daughter, Mike, has assumed a central role in the workshop’s operations, ensuring that her father’s principles of quality and authenticity remain intact. “Children of a fish will naturally swim,” Katura had often said, a testament to his confidence in his family’s ability to sustain the legacy.

The family now hosts regular workshops to educate the public about batik, drawing school groups and international visitors alike. These sessions serve as a vital tool to promote cultural appreciation while generating additional income for the business.

Challenges in a Modern Market

While Katura thrives as a cultural landmark, it has faced significant challenges in balancing tradition with commerce. The rise of mass-produced batik imitations poses a threat to artisans committed to authentic techniques. Katura’s opposition to copyright laws also placed the workshop at odds with some commercial interests, but the family remains committed to his vision of batik as a shared cultural treasure.

The family has also navigated economic disruptions, from the 1998 financial crisis to the recent pandemic. Yet, their resilience and adaptability—combined with a loyal international customer base—have kept UD Katura afloat.

A Vision for the Future

In his final years, Katura emphasized the importance of cultural education and sustainability. He often advised younger generations to “cintailah batik dengan cara memulai untuk memakainya”—a call to embrace batik not only as a product but as a cultural identity.

The family has pledged to honor this vision by maintaining their commitment to craftsmanship and community. Plans are underway to expand the workshop’s outreach, focusing on preserving Trusmi’s reputation as a hub for authentic batik.

Remembering a Maestro

Katura’s contributions have left an indelible mark on Indonesian art and culture. His passing on March 16, 2024, was mourned by the community and celebrated as the culmination of a life devoted to beauty and tradition. Today, visitors to UD Katura can still feel his presence—in the intricate patterns of each batik cloth, the hum of the workshop, and the stories shared by those who knew him.

For those who step into the world Sanggar Batik Katura, it becomes clear that Katura’s legacy is not merely preserved—it is alive, vibrant, and inspiring a new generation to carry the torch of tradition.