Mbok Semok as Visual Communication Media And Environmental Conservation in Indonesia

Abstract

Local wisdom – based social approach is one of conservative ways to prevent environmental damage caused by community’s lack of understanding in environmental management. Batik as a cultural artifact is flexible and dynamic as media to express and as a local wisdom symbolization that Indonesian people are able to communicate visually and effectively. Girilayu as a batik center in the mountainous area of Karanganyar regency, Central Java, Indonesia is chosen as this research location since batik artists in this area are capable in visualizing community’s local wisdom in contemporary batik motif, i.e. mbok semok. This study aims at (i) outlining the concept of communication and environmental conservation media through Mbok Semok batik motif, (ii) elaborating philosophical role of Mbok Semok batik motif functions as communication and environmental conservation media by batik artists in Girilayu, and (iii) analyzing the role of Mbok Semok batik motif as effective communication and environmental conservation media in Girilayu. In addition, the method used in this research is visual cultural study with ethnographic approach. Moreover, research analysis is enriched with referential documentation resulting in the finding that visual language in Mbok Semok batik motif can communicate Girilayu community’s moral value in preserving the environment through the philosophical meanings of its motifs to their younger generation and visitors of this batik center. Visual communication on batik is an effective medium for community local wisdom – based environmental conservation in Indonesia.

Keywords: batik; Girilayu; Mbok Semok; environmental conservation; visual communication