Batik is an ancient wax resist process traditionally used to decorate textiles. The process begins by applying wax to the surface of cloth, usually silk or cotton, and dipping it in a cold water dye solution. The waxed areas resist the dye and the process is repeated many times to achieve multi-layers of different colors. When the waxed areas are crushed, dyes seep into them creating the characteristic crackle of batik. The wax is removed to uncover the many layers of colors.
From the outset my aim was to control the viscosity of the dyes and orchestrate the crackles to make them work as plastic elements in the design of my paintings. It is a long and tedious process but, like jazz, it embraces improvisation and contemplation, important elements in my creative efforts.
Leo Twiggs