Film Dokumenter "Putaran Miring Gerabah Melikan"

Summary

This video explores the rich history and intricate process of pottery (gerabah) making in a traditional Indonesian village. The craft, passed down through generations, is showcased from raw material preparation to firing the finished products. Various techniques, including the use of both hand and wheel methods, are explained in detail. The craft has evolved from simple utilitarian items to more diverse products such as pots, vases, and home goods, with some exported globally. The video highlights how young people are learning and continuing this age-old tradition while adapting it for modern markets.

Takeaways

• 😀 The tradition of making pottery (gerabah) in the region has been passed down through generations, dating back to over 600 years ago, linked to Sunan Pandanaran Bayat.
• 😀 The process of making gerabah involves sourcing clay, mixing it with sand, and using traditional tools such as a wheel or hand techniques to shape the items.
• 😀 Pottery production was once limited to a few types of items, such as kendis (traditional jars), celengan (piggy banks), and ceremonial objects, but expanded significantly after the 1980s.
• 😀 In the 1980s and 1990s, young artisans trained in Banjarnegara introduced new techniques and designs, leading to a broader range of products.
• 😀 Various types of pottery are now produced, including not only traditional items but also housewares like serving dishes and plant pots, with over 30-50 different kinds available.
• 😀 The pottery from this region is distributed locally across Indonesia, including cities like Yogyakarta, Surabaya, and Bali, and is even exported internationally, often through third-party exporters.
• 😀 The pottery-making process includes stages like mixing the clay, molding the pieces, drying them, smoothing surfaces, and firing them in a kiln for about 10-11 hours.
• 😀 Pottery made using the 'vertical wheel' technique is generally larger and used for traditional jars and ceremonial objects, while the 'horizontal wheel' technique produces smaller items.
• 😀 The region has adapted to modern market needs, with pottery now used in restaurants, hotels, and even as decorative items in homes and public spaces.
• 😀 The pottery is often fired to create different colors and finishes, such as brown or red, depending on the type of clay used and the method of firing.

Q & A

What is the historical significance of pottery in Klaten?

Pottery in Klaten has been a part of the local culture for around 600 years, dating back to the era of Sunan Pandanaran Bayat. It has been passed down through generations and is considered a significant cultural heritage.

What materials are used in the pottery-making process?

The primary materials used in making pottery are clay and sand. The clay is mixed with fine sand to achieve the right consistency for molding and shaping the pottery.

How is the pottery shaped during production?

Pottery is shaped using two primary techniques: the upright wheel and the tilted wheel. The upright wheel is used for larger items, while the tilted wheel is typically used for smaller or more intricate items.

What steps are involved in the pottery-making process?

The process involves selecting and preparing materials, mixing clay with sand, molding the pottery, drying it, refining the shape, and then firing it in a kiln. Afterward, the pottery is finished and sent to the market.

How did the pottery industry evolve after the 1980s?

After the 1980s, the pottery industry in Klaten diversified. New techniques like the upright wheel were introduced, allowing for the production of more varied pottery items such as flower pots, cooking utensils, and decorative objects.

What types of pottery were produced before the 1980s?

Before the 1980s, the pottery production in Klaten was relatively monotonous, focusing mainly on a few types like celengan (piggy banks), kendis (water jars), and various ceremonial items for traditional events like weddings.

How has the pottery market expanded?

The pottery market has expanded both locally and globally. In addition to local sales across various cities in Indonesia, pottery from Klaten is now also exported internationally, reaching countries like the United States and Japan.

What is the significance of 'gerabah' in the local culture?

'Gerabah' refers to traditional pottery in the region. It holds cultural and historical importance, representing the craftsmanship passed down through generations. The craft is integral to local identity and heritage.

What is the role of local craftsmen in the pottery industry?

Local craftsmen play a crucial role in the production of pottery in Klaten. They use traditional techniques combined with modern innovations to create a wide range of pottery items, ensuring the continuity of this age-old craft.

What challenges do local potters face in the modern market?

One of the challenges local potters face is maintaining the quality and authenticity of traditional pottery while competing with mass-produced alternatives. Additionally, there are challenges in expanding to global markets and navigating export processes.