Bunga Kantan deeply rooted in Peranakan cuisine, takes center stage in this vibrant painting. Rendered in traditional sarong batik, the flower symbolizes three generations, with the largest bloom representing our grandmother. Traditionally absent in sarong designs, Bunga Kantan is essential in our cuisine. The dragonfly motifs embody resilience and transformation, while the flower’s upward growth signifies our ongoing journey through life. The background’s beadwork mirrors the artwork’s intricate detail, and the oranges symbolize morning sunlight, reflecting the Nyonya Kebaya’s honeycomb mesh. Peranakan tile-inspired fringes evoke the traditional decorations of batik textiles.
This work is a special collaboration between Nini & Maneknya.
