Green-Brown Floral Motif Cotton Cover Journal Recycled Paper, "Archer in the Forest"

"I was born in 1966 in a small town Central Java, the fifth of seven children. My parents were just ordinary government officers. Our town was lovely with cool weather and nice views; most of the people work as farmers. After finishing high school, I moved to Bandung. I'm married now and we have three children.

"I love exercise, especially running.

"Like everyone else. I've faced difficult times in my life. One thing that I always remember is to be patient and keep fighting, hoping someday all the bad things will get better.

Then, one day, I became really proud of myself when people finally appreciated my art. That is the fruit of my hard work and my learning time. I'm always learning about new things because I thought to myself that this learning could be really useful in the future.

"Of all of my collections, the most challenging is a technique known as kolaste, a combination of collage and weaving. Not many people use it, which makes my work different from that of others. I am the one who designs my journals and I also coordinate everything with the artisans who assist me.

"Normally, I look for the old and used fabrics sold in the traditional market to make paintings and notebooks. But today I also use old-look batiks. Our tools and equipment are simple like scissors, utility knives and glue.

"When I see a lot of unused paper, just trash, thrown away by people, I feel inspired. So I collect them and transform them into art.

"But my work is not only about recycling; it is also to introduce the old batik motifs to the world. By introducing batik, I am also introducing Indonesian culture, because batik has been created and worn by our people since long ago times.

"Besides crafting my journals and notebooks, I am also part of a craftsman community. My friends often tell me I'm highly tolerant, full of consistency and they also see me as a patient man because I'm rarely angry with anyone.

"My greatest professional achievement was when I won recognition from UNESCO. Then, in an exhibition, I met Novica. Now I'm able to show our Indonesian batik culture around the world. I hope you like my work."