Balinese Kamasan Classical Paintings Registered as a Geographical Indication Product

Jakarta: For the first time in Indonesia, a painting style has been registered as a geographical indication due to its reputation, quality, and distinctive characteristics. The Balinese Kamasan Classical Painting style, registered within the Directorate General of Intellectual Property, has recently completed the publication period. This painting style is a traditional art form that has grown and developed in Kamasan Village, Klungkung District, Bali. They possess a very distinctive and unique identity found only in this region.

The painting process is quite unique, utilizing natural dyes applied to coarse cloth that has been soaked in rice flour paste and dried. Once dry, the surface is smoothed to create an even base ready for coloring with natural dyes. The painting often used to complement Hindu religious rituals, depict themes drawn from epics such as the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Sutasoma, Tantri, and the Balinese Calendar. The artists' expertise, combined with unique techniques, creates captivating and highly valuable artworks. This painting style is not only beautiful and unique but also radiates the richness of Bali's traditional art.

According to the registration documents, Kamasan Classical Painting style is a craft created by the ancestors of the people of Kamasan Village. In the village, the children are still trained from a young age to paint and maintain the Kamasan painting tradition, to ensure that the painting techniques are preserved and passed on to the next generation.

Kamasan classical painting style is traditionally used as offerings and are created collectively and communally, bound by strict rules and standards. The materials used are sourced from nature and processed using traditional techniques. Visually, the Kamasan wayang style paintings is highly artistic, containing high aesthetic values and symbolic meanings that often reflect human life in this world and the afterlife. In modern times, Kamasan Bali painting style has been commercialized as a profession to support families. However, their creation still adheres to the traditional rules. The origins of Kamasan Bali painting style can be traced back to prehistoric painting traditions depicting human figures and nature, which evolved with the introduction of Hinduism in Bali.

Kamasan Classical Paintings style of Bali is a testament to the enduring and vibrant traditional art forms of Indonesia. Their registration as a geographical indication not only recognizes their cultural and artistic value but also helps in preserving and promoting this unique heritage for future generations not only in its homeland, but also in global international environment.

K&K Advocates provides comprehensive intellectual property services in Indonesia. We actively advise and assist clients in obtaining protection for their IP assets, including Geographical Indications. With our extensive expertise in this field, we are committed to ensuring comprehensive protection for your unique products. Please do not hesitate to contact us for additional information or in-depth consultation regarding the appropriate IP protection. (JPK/SMN/BDP-su)