Gianyar Documents Textile & Metal Crafts in Book to Retain World Craft City Status

RRI.CO.ID, Gianyar - In an effort to maintain its status as a World Craft City since 2018, the Gianyar Regency Administration in Bali Province has documented the region’s rich textile and metal crafts in a comprehensive book. The publication represents the local administration’s responsibility to preserve Gianyar’s cultural identity while reinforcing the presence of its crafts on the international stage.

“This book is expected to provide a truly comprehensive overview and address the various questions that may arise,” said Chairperson of the Gianyar chapter of the National Crafts Council (Dekranasda), Surya Adnyani Mahayastra, in Gianyar, Bali on Monday, September 21, 2026.

She said the book would cover the history, techniques, cultural values, and development of textile and metal crafts, including craft traditions that have been cultivated and passed down through generations.

Textiles and metalwork are part of Gianyar’s cultural heritage as well as a source of economic strength for its people. Each piece therefore carries its own character, techniques, history, and philosophical values, all of which need to be documented so they can be passed on to future generations.

The book has now been compiled and is undergoing validation and refinement to ensure the accuracy of its content. This stage also includes gathering input from craft experts through a book review and discussion at the Denpasar Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI).

She explained that the experiences of artisans and business practitioners were an important part of the book’s refinement. They possess first-hand knowledge of the history and production techniques of the crafts, as well as their motifs and the challenges involved in preserving them amid changing times.

“Crafts are not only about art and culture but also about businesses, employment, and community welfare. Therefore, preservation must go hand in hand with economic development, innovation, and improved competitiveness, without sacrificing Gianyar’s cultural identity,” she said, as quoted by Antara.

She said the book also formed part of the administration's responsibility to ensure that the region’s rich craft heritage remains preserved and continues to develop, in line with Gianyar’s designation as a World Craft City in 2018.

She expressed hope that the book would serve not merely as an archive but also as a credible, meaningful, and relevant reference for the public, younger generations, university students, academics, researchers, and local administrations. ***