Threads of Life: The Stories on the Tapestries
Cloths have a special place in the cultural heritage of Bali, the use of textiles a living tradition in itself. Imbued with symbolism and meaning, they are more than just an article of clothing. The...
View ArticleJohn Hardy: Empowered by a Renewed Craft
One of Bali’s biggest success stories is John Hardy, a homegrown artisanal tradition gone international. The global appreciation of the brand’s handcrafted jewellery has not only fuelled the...
View ArticleMake a Scene Bali: Leaf Weaving in New Dimensions
Unlike the textile weaving industry, Bali’s leaf weaving craft needed no help for revival. It persists through the local communities as a daily necessity. In fact, it has become larger than life,...
View ArticleEmpu Keris: Master Forgers of the Sacred Dagger
The keris is an ancient weapon, a sacred dagger dating back to at least the age of the Majapahit Kingdom, though some say further. To make a sacred weapon takes more than just skill, it requires an...
View ArticleKamasan Painters in the Modern Age: New Canvases, New Opportunities
Bali’s oldest painting tradition is found in Klungkung, in the village of Kamasan. These paintings, also known as a wayang style, depict tales of the Hindu epics, namely the Mahabharata and the...
View ArticleSpirit of Bali: The Rise of Arak
Arak. It is the drink of both celebration and ceremony here in Bali, used at social as well as religious gatherings. Needless to say, it has its role and part to play in everyday life on the island —...
View ArticleCraft Beer in Bali: The Best Local Brews and Brands
This island used to be synonymous with a single beer brand. So widespread was this reputation that singlets, hats and all kinds of merchandise flooded the markets – a hegemony that could not be...
View ArticleIsland Brewing: A Bali Craft Beer Brewed for Good Times
Now ubiquitous across Bali, Island Brewing is slowly becoming the go-to brew, converting the ‘big brand’ drinkers to savour something with a little more soul — a little more love in its making....
View ArticleIsland Distilleries: Bali’s Growing Spirits Industry Explores Archipelagic...
In Bali, island distilleries are not an unfamiliar concept. For centuries, the Balinese have been producing arak, a local heritage of Balinese ancestors that dates back to the Majapahit era, though...
View ArticleWines Made in Bali: Balinese Wineries and Vineyards
When people think of Bali, what comes to mind is probably coconuts and tropical fruits, and probably not grapes. However, the soils of this fertile island accommodate a versatile range of produce and...
View ArticlePande Gong: The Gamelan Makers of Tihingan Village
Clang! Dug! Ting!… Clang! Dug! Ting!… The sounds of metal pounding metal can be heard from a distance. Then a shout, some laughter, followed once again by the clamour of hammers. Clang! Dug! Ting! The...
View ArticleTraditional Balinese Cuisine: 7 Must-Try Authentic Local Dishes
An aspect of Balinese culture that continues to captivate visitors and locals alike is its culinary legacy, a testament to the island’s rich tapestry of traditions shaped by centuries of trade and...
View ArticleNusa Caña: Reviving the Forgotten Story of Indonesian Rum
Nusa Caña – Godfather 100% Batavia Arrack For centuries, the allure of the Indonesian islands has captivated travellers, traders, and adventurers from across the globe. Yet, unbeknownst to many, some...
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