Stained in Traces: Mixed Media Textile Art, Patchwork and Natural Dyeing

Abstract

This creative research is rooted in the principles of ‘Wabi-Sabi,’ a revered Japanese philosophy. The beauty of simplicity, rust stains, or other traces, and embracing imperfections is reflected in the Wabi-Sabi philosophy. This study aims to 1) create a series of works stained in traces, including mixed media textile art, patchwork, and natural dyeing; 2) bring a set of creative works to be a technical model, serving as a prototype example for the development and innovation of community batik products, specifically for the Ban Bue Nae Batik Group in Budi Subdistrict, Mueang District, Yala Province; 3) integrate creative work with the teaching and learning process, preserving arts and culture, and contributing to academic community services; and 4) present and disseminate creative works and research articles to be published for the public.
The results of this creative research involve a process of sewing patchwork fabric. The creator employs various techniques, including printing fabric with rusted iron scraps, leaf printing on a rusted background, tie-dyeing, dyeing, and painting using local natural extracts. These techniques are applied to create diverse patterns and textures on the fabric. The incorporation of sewing and embroidery techniques, along with the use of different materials, adds interest to stains, scratches, tears, and patches. This current creative work consists of three pieces, available in sizes of 1) 100 x 200 cm., 2) 100 x 260 cm. and 3) 100 x 280 cm. respectively. They are displayed by hanging. Additionally, the creator utilizes fabric scraps generated during the process, appreciating the value of these remnants and sharing their new beauty. Furthermore, this creative work has the potential to inspire the development of products such as shoulder bags and various long-sleeved shirts, serving as a prototype for innovation in community batik products for the Ban Bue Nae Batik Group in Budi Subdistrict, Mueang District, Yala Province in future commercial endeavors.