An exhibition of handicrafts is being held at Bantul regency’s Gabusan Art Market to help artisans rebuild their businesses after the May 27 earthquake.

The quake destroyed many of the regency’s handicraft industries, including earthenware workshops in Kasongan, batik workshops in Imogiri and leather-craft workshops in Manding.

Both the buildings and handicrafts, many ready for sale, were damaged.

Up to 50 artisans are represented in the monthlong exhibition, which opened on June 27. Earthenware pots, statues and batik are among the goods on sale.

Traditional snacks are also available at the exhibition, like geplak, a sweet cake made from palm sugar and coconut.

Event organizer Untoro said the exhibition was designed to get the artisans back on their feet. “Most of the workshops, which generally double as galleries, were damaged, so it was important to provide a display space for the artisans. This is boosting their spirits and helping them stay in touch with regular customers.”

However, when the exhibition finishes, many of the artisans will still be facing massive problems.

“My house and many pre-ordered bamboo products were destroyed. But what good is it just to stay home staring at the mess? That won’t help us. I’m only grateful that all members of my family are safe,” Dlinggo resident Pujowiyono said.

He said participating in the exhibition was not very profitable as he was making Rp 25,000 (US$2.63) a day, but spending Rp 15,000 on transportation.

Before the earthquake he was making up to Rp 7 million a month.

“The most important thing for me is not a daily income, but maintaining customer relations. Plus it is also helping me forget about my problems. If I just stayed home, I would be a total nutcase by now,” said the father of four.

Leni, a Krebet Pajangan resident who produces wooden handicrafts with batik motifs, said the artisans needed to be more determined than before if they wanted to survive.

“People are giving us assistance. But we cannot live on aid alone. We have to be stronger.”

Pujowiyono, Leni and other artisans conceded the exhibition had not attracted many buyers.

“This is partly due to poor promotion and partly our customers’ weak purchasing power,” said Yudha, an artisan from Tirtonirmolo who works with copper.
source:www.thejakartapost.com

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