Transformation of Traditional Telepuk Motifs into Contemporary Artwork

Abstract

The Kain Telepuk is known as a rich fabric, usually worn by Malay nobility at least 300 years ago. Telepuk is a traditional technique that involves the process of gilding woven fabric with gold leaf. To produce a telepuk, two traditional techniques are employed: menggerus (calendering the fabric) and menelepuk (the printing process). Nowadays, due to the lack of understanding and information on telepuk, most Malaysians do not know about this Malay textile heritage. Therefore, this research seeks to revive and commercialise traditional telepuk motifs, by transforming its design and motifs into contemporary artwork. This research does not apply the traditional techniques of telepuk making, but instead applies a variety of different techniques, such as silk screen printing, laser cutting, and digital printing. This use of modern techniques seeks to transform this traditional art form, as well as provide a new direction in creating contemporary artwork that still preserves traditional telepuk motifs. The findings of this research will provide vital information for future generations, particularly in sustaining the exclusiveness of telepuk in Malaysia.