In this week’s episode, we talk with frequent guest of the podcast Kerri Na Basaria about the exhibit Ulos, Hangoluan, & Tondi — an exhibition that features a collection of rare and old ulos, the iconic textile of the Batak people of North Sumatra. Kerri has planned and organized this exhibit that’s being held in the Textile Museum in Jakarta for the last few months, and we chat with her about the significance and meaning of ulos in the lives of the Bataknese, including its ceremonial and protective qualities. We also discuss the socio-economic circumstances that surround the production and sale of ulos such as the lives of the weavers, their aspirations and needs, and how they’re financially exploited by middlemen and other figures in power. Finally, we discuss the rich & diverse heritage and history of ulos as emblematic of the highest aspirations of Indonesian identity — one that genuinely celebrates its diverse cultures and backgrounds and recognizes the melting pot that makes up our unique shared history and society.
Ulos, Hangoluan, & Tondi is currently on show at the Textile Museum in West Jakarta until October 7th, 2018. The exhibit is open from 9am to 4pm and is free of charge. Also, follow the Instagram account @tobatenun to find out more about this exhibit and topic!
Thanks for listening!
