The Visual Narrative of Dayak Meratus Basketry Motifs and Social Transformation

Abstract (English)

The Dayak Meratus indigenous community possesses a tradition of crafting woven baskets known as arangan, which serve both functional and ritualistic purposes. These baskets are integral to daily activities, such as supporting agricultural tasks (bahuma), storing rice seeds, and harvesting rice, as well as activities in the forest and kitchen. Additionally, arangan are employed in rituals, notably as rice baskets during the aruh ganal ritual or harvest celebration. Beyond their utilitarian and ceremonial roles, arangan feature motifs imbued with symbolic meanings that reflect the identity of the community. These motifs evolve in response to the socio-cultural dynamics within the community. This study aims to elucidate the symbolic meanings of arangan motifs and their transformation amidst socio-cultural changes. Employing a visual narrative approach, the research analyzes the meanings of these motifs and their evolution in response to socio-cultural shifts, thereby uncovering new meanings or interests that emerge. Data collection involved participatory observation through direct engagement with arangan artisans and in-depth interviews with them. The findings indicate that the arangan motifs of the Dayak Meratus are deeply intertwined with ecological relationships with the surrounding natural environment. The motifs predominantly depict local flora, such as flowers (including tigarun flowers, orchids, mahligai nails, pekayam buds), and representations of local fauna, such as hornbills. These motifs not only exhibit visual aesthetics but also convey the identity and philosophical values of the local community. However, with the social transformations experienced by the Dayak Meratus, including the spread of formal religion, the assimilation of nationalistic values, and the influence of modernity leading to the commercialization of arangan, these motifs have undergone changes, acquiring new meanings. For instance, the emergence of formal religious symbols, such as the cross, and state symbols, like the garuda bird motif, as well as motifs driven by market demand, have been observed. In this context, the arangan motif serves as a material cultural artifact that reflects the socio-cultural dynamics within the Dayak Meratus indigenous community.