Anne Hanley :: Watercolor/Batik

My paintings are created using a
resist method known as “Batik”.
The word batik means “wax painting” in Malayan. The batik process was first practiced by the Egyptians, but reached its highest development in Java , Indonesia where it is still practiced since the 7th Century AD. Batik was first introduced in Europe by the Dutch painters in the 17th Century.

Traditional batik involves applying hot wax to a fabric surface, then painting with colored dyes. The areas covered with the hot wax do not absorb the dye, so the wax “resists” the dye or paint.
In my work I have altered the materials of fabric and dyes to ricepaper and watercolor paint.

I begin a painting with a composition in mind. Using a traditional tjaunting tool and hot wax I render linear forms. I add washes of watercolor paint to blend the forms. The method is repeated adding layers of hot wax and washes of watercolor paint until the painting is complete. In the final steps of the batik process there is an element of surprise as the image begins to reveal itself with the removal of the wax.

Batik is a medium that combines many aspects of my education and interests. My education in drafting and design helps to create interesting layouts and compositions. My strong sense of color and love of texture and painting combined with the use of hot wax, creates endless combinations and effects.

“I believe I have created a unique style through the use of a traditional medium for contemporary and stylized images. I enjoy a wide range of subjects. But most of my inspiration comes from images I find in nature. Although batik can be unforgiving I enjoy the challenge of making it come to life in my work.”