WAVES OF WEAVE: SOUTHEAST ASIAN TEXTILE HERITAGE AND THE LEGACY OF GUSTI NURUL

Images courtesy of JFW and its associates

Threads of Heritage and the Story of Identity and Freedom

Celebrating the artistry of traditional textiles from 10 Southeast Asian nations, Waves of Weave explores the region’s shared cultural heritage while spotlighting the remarkable wardrobe of Gusti Nurul, the celebrated “Flower of Mangkunegaran,” whose life embodies elegance, independence, and the freedom to define one’s own identity.

Opening at the National Museum in Jakarta, Waves of Weave brings together a rich collection of traditional textiles and kebaya from across Southeast Asia. Among its highlights is an intimate display of kebaya, batik, and personal accessories belonging to Gusti Raden Ayu Siti Noeroel Kamaril Ngasarati Kusumawardhani, better known as Gusti Nurul. A Javanese noblewoman renowned for her beauty, intelligence, and independent spirit, she was admired for her refined court attire before choosing to relinquish her royal status following her marriage to military officer R.M. Soerjo Soejarso.

Presented by Jakarta Fashion Week in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia, the Indonesian Heritage Agency, the National Museum, Adhvan Media, and ASA, the exhibition runs from 26 October 2026 to 8 January 2027. Curated by Benny Gratha, Assistant Curator at the Jakarta Textile Museum, it features 42 pieces of kebaya, wastra, and accessories, tracing the region’s rich textile traditions through historical craftsmanship, distinctive motifs, and cultural exchange.

Presented by Coulisse | INK

The exhibition unfolds across three narratives. The first explores the kebaya traditions of Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, whose joint nomination was recognised by UNESCO in 2024 as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The second brings together textiles from 10 Southeast Asian countries, revealing the diversity of techniques and cultural influences that shape the region’s textile identity. The third, titled Suwung, centres on Gusti Nurul’s personal collection and the deeper meaning of her life choices.

Rooted in Javanese philosophy, suwung evokes a state of inner clarity, free from ego and worldly attachments. Through Gusti Nurul’s story, the exhibition considers how clothing can express social status and cultural identity while reflecting a woman’s agency to redefine herself beyond inherited privilege.

Waves of Weave invites younger generations to rediscover Southeast Asia’s shared heritage while recognising the traditions, craftsmanship, and personal stories that continue to give these textiles their enduring relevance.

Exhibition Details
• Dates: 26 October 2026 – 8 January 2027
• Venue: National Museum, Jakarta
• Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 08:00–17:00 WIB
• Admission: IDR 50,000