Featuring works by seven batik artists from four cities, the exhibition invites the public to explore the story of Chinese-Indonesian cultural acculturation while preserving batik heritage for future generations.
Batik is more than just patterned fabric. Behind every stroke of the canting, every blend of colour and every intricate motif lies a story of human journeys, cultural encounters and values passed down from one generation to the next.
This spirit is celebrated through Harmony in Diversity, a Peranakan batik exhibition taking place from the 5th–12th of November 2026 at House of Tugu, Old Town Jakarta, in collaboration with Bentara Budaya, a cultural institution under Kompas Gramedia. The exhibition also commemorates the second anniversary of House of Tugu Old Town Jakarta, which falls on the 7th of November 2026.
Featuring works by seven batik artists from Jakarta, Cirebon, Pekalongan and Lasem, the exhibition invites the public to discover the richness of Peranakan batik—an expression of culture shaped by encounters between Chinese traditions and the local cultures of the Indonesian archipelago, particularly Java.
More than an art exhibition, Harmony in Diversity conveys the message that differences should not be seen as something to be contested, but as a source of richness that can complement one another and give rise to new forms of beauty.
Peranakan Batik: A Story of Cultural Acculturation in Every Piece of Fabric
Peranakan batik developed in various coastal regions of the Indonesian archipelago, particularly from the 19th century onwards, as Chinese-descended communities integrated with local communities and contributed to the development of batik-making traditions.
This cultural fusion gave rise to a distinctive visual character. Floral and fauna motifs, peonies, phoenixes and ornamental patterns influenced by Chinese culture blend with the techniques, aesthetics and traditions of Javanese batik. Bright colours such as red, blue and gold further enrich its unique artistic identity.
From this process of cultural acculturation emerged a tradition that demonstrates how culture can evolve while remaining rooted in its history.
Through this exhibition, visitors are invited not only to admire the visual beauty of Peranakan batik, but also to appreciate the history, dedication, creativity and cultural identity embodied in every work.
Seven Artists, Four Cities, One Cultural Spirit
Harmony in Diversity brings together seven batik artists and practitioners who sustain the Peranakan batik tradition through their artistic creations and enterprises.
The participating artists include Dave Tjoa from Jakarta; Giok, also known as Indrawati, from Batik Kanoman, Cirebon; Liem Po Hien from Batik Liem Ping Wie, Pekalongan; Valentina Ekawatiningsih from Batik Lumintu; Sulistyono from Batik Nyah Kiok; Sri Soesilaningsih, also known as Mak Som, from Batik Surya Kencana; and Rudi Siswanto from Batik Kidang Mas.
The works on display represent a diversity of artistic styles, techniques, motifs and personal journeys, reflecting how batik artisans continue to preserve tradition while nurturing creativity.
The exhibition is curated by Sri Rejeki, one of the coordinators of Kompas Daily’s Ekspedisi Selisik Batik, who also supports efforts to introduce the richness of Indonesian batik to a wider audience.
The participation of artists with diverse backgrounds and experiences serves as a reminder that cultural preservation requires continuity, appreciation and opportunities for future generations to continue creating.
House of Tugu Old Town Jakarta: Where History Meets Culture
The choice of House of Tugu, Old Town Jakarta, as the exhibition venue carries special significance. Situated in the historic district of Batavia, House of Tugu Old Town Jakarta is a boutique hotel and a space dedicated to preserving the art, history and cultural heritage of the Indonesian archipelago.
With a collection of more than 1,000 antiques and works of art gathered over decades, House of Tugu offers an atmosphere where different layers of history and tradition converge, including the richness of Chinese Peranakan culture.
Within this setting, Harmony in Diversity finds a home that resonates with its message. Peranakan batik is presented not merely as an art object, but as part of a long and continuing story of cultural encounters that remains alive today.
For House of Tugu, hosting this exhibition reflects its commitment to making cultural heritage an experience that people of different generations can enjoy, learn from and appreciate.
More Than an Exhibition: A Cultural Experience for the Public
To enrich the visitor experience, Harmony in Diversity will be accompanied by a series of activities throughout the exhibition period.
The programme includes the exhibition opening on the 5th of November; a Peranakan Batik Bazaar from the 5th–8th of November; Peranakan Afternoon Tea from the 5th–12th of November; a Batik Workshop on the 6th of November; a talk show on the 7th of November; and an Urban Sketchers gathering on the 8th of November 2026.
These activities are designed to create opportunities for interaction among artists, batik enthusiasts, creative communities, travellers and the general public. The bazaar will also provide an opportunity to support batik artisans and small and medium-sized enterprises that continue to sustain this traditional craft.
By combining exhibitions, education, artistic appreciation and cultural experiences, the event aims to engage younger generations and foster broader interest in Peranakan batik.
Celebrating Diversity, Preserving Our Shared Heritage
The theme Harmony in Diversity reflects the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika—Unity in Diversity. This value is clearly reflected in the history of Peranakan batik, where different cultural influences do not erase one another, but instead blend together to create a rich and distinctive tradition.
Through the collaboration between House of Tugu and Bentara Budaya, the exhibition aims to celebrate the creativity of batik artisans, strengthen appreciation for Indonesia’s cultural heritage and remind the public of the importance of preserving diversity as an integral part of the nation’s identity.
Ultimately, Harmony in Diversity invites us to recognise that harmony does not mean making differences uniform. True harmony flourishes when every identity is given space to exist, when differences are respected and when people come together to create something meaningful.
Exhibition Information
Harmony in Diversity — Peranakan Batik Exhibition
- Dates: 5th–12th of November 2026
- Venue: House of Tugu, Old Town Jakarta
- Address: Jl. Kali Besar Barat No. 26, West Jakarta, Indonesia
- Collaborator: Bentara Budaya, Kompas Gramedia
- Curator: Sri Rejeki