Talun: Bark Cloth Garments Reviving the Creative Heritage of the Dayak

 

Young Dayak people take pride in wearing garments made from talun bark cloth at a gathering in Krayan, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan. Photo by Masri Sareb.

KRAYAN - dayaktoday.com : The talun garment, known in the Lundayeh language or referred to as bark cloth made from kepuak by the people of West Kalimantan, is a unique product of nature’s resources. It stands as a testament to the ingenious creativity of the Dayak people in harnessing the abundance of their surrounding forests.

This traditional attire serves as a symbol of local wisdom passed down through generations, seamlessly blending art, culture, and remarkable technical skill. Its production involves traditional methods that are not only environmentally friendly but also reflect the Dayak’s deep connection to nature.

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The bark used for these garments comes from trees like the peluntan or tarap, valued for their robust yet flexible fibres. Once the bark is harvested, the outer layer is beaten with simple tools to loosen and remove the coarse ariya layer. Only the finest fibres are further processed, sun-dried, and prepared as the raw material for the garments. 

These fibres are then carefully stitched into clothing, adorned with intricate Dayak motifs rich in cultural significance. The talun garment, when worn, exudes a distinctive allure, as vividly demonstrated by the young Dayak Lundayeh at an adat (customary) ceremony in Krayuan, Nunukan Regency, North Kalimantan.

The creative process behind the talun barment

The making of the talun garment is an intricate process requiring specialised skills, passed down through generations within the Dayak community. It begins with the careful selection of suitable trees, such as the peluntan or tarap, chosen for their high-quality fibres. This selection is conducted with precision, ensuring that only mature trees are used, thus preserving the surrounding ecosystem.

After selecting the tree, the bark is harvested using traditional techniques. This involves beating the bark with simple tools to separate the outer layer, or ariya, from the usable inner fibres. 

The coarse outer layer is discarded, leaving soft yet durable fibres. These fibres are then sun-dried to make them easier to work with. The next steps involve stretching and softening the fibres through natural means, entirely free of chemicals, showcasing the Dayak’s respect for their environment.

Once the material is ready, the fibres are stitched into garments following straightforward patterns. However, the true beauty of the talun lies in its final touches: the intricate Dayak motifs. 

These designs are often carved or painted using natural dyes, each symbolising profound cultural meanings such as protection, strength, or harmony with nature.

Dayak Innovation: Tradition as modern inspiration

The talun garment is not just traditional attire; it has transformed into an evolving art form, gaining increasing relevance over time. With the introduction of modern innovations, this ancient tradition has been revitalised to meet the needs of contemporary society. 

Talun garments are now often featured in cultural festivals, tourism events, and fashion shows, bringing Dayak heritage to an international stage.

In addition to these cultural showcases, innovation has played a significant role in preserving and enhancing the craft. While maintaining its traditional essence, technology has been embraced to support the creation of these garments. 

Ancient patterns, once meticulously applied by hand, are now digitally archived, making it easier for younger generations to learn and master this time-honoured skill.

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This fusion of tradition and modernity allows the talun garment to remain both relevant and respected, symbolising the Dayak people's ability to adapt while honouring their cultural roots. As a result, the talun has become more than just clothing; it is a living testament to the enduring spirit of Dayak creativity.

Dayak creativity exemplifies remarkable adaptability today

Today, the creativity of the Dayak people continues to exemplify remarkable adaptability, seamlessly blending tradition with modernity. 

As Michael Vence aptly states, innovation is the ability to revive heritage into new, relevant forms. The talun garment serves as a perfect example of this concept, showcasing how ancient practices can evolve to meet contemporary demands. It demonstrates that Dayak traditions not only survive but thrive in a rapidly changing world.

The talun garment embodies the fusion of heritage and creativity, becoming a symbol of cultural resilience. By embracing new materials and techniques, while preserving traditional values, the garment has become a significant cultural asset. 

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The Dayak community's ability to transform their ancestral heritage into something both meaningful and visually appealing highlights the enduring strength of their cultural identity.

This innovative approach shows that tradition can be a powerful source of modern inspiration, offering rich aesthetic and cultural value. 

Through their craftsmanship, the Dayak people demonstrate how creativity can bridge the past and present, ensuring their heritage remains relevant and respected in today's world.

-- Rangkaya Bada