Traditional ta oos more than just symbolism, says master ta ooist
Traditional ta oos serve as a vessel for storytelling, preserving and sharing narratives from past generations through intricate designs and symbolic motifs, according to an Indonesian ta oo master.
Durga Sipatiti, 51, said traditional ta oos go beyond mere symbolism or cultural significance, as they intertwine with the rich tapestry of history, etymology, and anthropology – encapsulating the essence of past generations.
“While modern ta oos may convey narratives, traditional ta oos hold a myriad of stories passed down from elders, rooted in specific cultures and regions, offering a profound connection to our ancestral heritage.
“I don’t create anything new; I simply honour and uphold our culture,” he told The Borneo Post when met at the Dayak Bidayuh National Association Hall here yesterday on the final day of the Kuching International Ta oo Expo 2024
Hailing from Jakarta, handtapped ta oo master Durga was among the participants who showcased their finest artwork during a competition held as part of the expo.
Each participant represented one of three categories: Realism Ta oo, Traditional Handtapped Ta oo, and Freestyle Ta oo.
Another artist from Jakarta who took part was Franky Hendriawan who specialises in realism ta oo.
Describing his cra as “the art of breathing life into ta oos”, the 32-year-old was observed painstakingly cra ing each design to mirror reality with unparalleled precision and depth.
“In my opinion, the realism ta ooing style is all about playing with colours, tones and shadows to manipulate the artwork, creating the illusion of reality,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kuching ta oo artist Linneker Rabbani, 38, spoke about the diversity within the ta ooing world, highlighting the abundance of styles available for exploration.
Specialising in freestyle ta ooing, he acknowledged the vast array of styles and techniques that artists can employ to create unique and personalised designs for their clients.
“In this competition, freestyle means participants have the freedom to submit designs of any style they prefer. They’re not confined to a specific aesthetic.
“Styles vary widely, including American ta ooing style, Japanese ta ooing style, Borneo tribal ta ooing style, and many others.
“Each artist has their own expertise, so if you have a preferred style, seek out an artist who specialises in it,” he said.