Kapas X3
The ‘Kapas’ edition celebrates nature’s wealth, artisanal skills, and authentic stories from Indonesia. This work speaks of mental decolonisation. The cotton industry was initiated in the 19th century when the Dutch colonial rule in the East Indies began in force and systematic. Cotton is a complex topic. Growing cotton in Indonesia is challenging due to the soil and high rainfall conditions. As a result, Indonesia’s coarse cotton harvest is priced lower than American, Chinese, or Indian cotton.
Since the 1980s, Indonesia has been one of the biggest exporters of cotton garments and textiles through processing imported raw cotton and yarn. Although it is grown in several places in Indonesia, more is needed to meet the increasing demand for textile cotton. Based on UN data, in 2021 alone, cotton imports to Indonesia reached USD1.87 billion. Indonesia’s significant role in the global cotton industry is only as an intermediary and end consumer, placing Indonesia in the lower economic chain.
Since the 1980s, Indonesia has been one of the biggest exporters of cotton garments and textiles through processing imported raw cotton and yarn. Although it is grown in several places in Indonesia, more is needed to meet the increasing demand for textile cotton. Based on UN data, in 2021 alone, cotton imports to Indonesia reached USD1.87 billion. Indonesia’s significant role in the global cotton industry is only as an intermediary and end consumer, placing Indonesia in the lower economic chain.
I use local cotton material and ensure that my process from start to end can be accounted for to raise public appreciation for made-in-Indonesia products and the local artisans. I dedicate all of this to you who love Indonesia. —MS, Jakarta 2023
