CosmoMagazine – In the hands of a fashion designer, a piece of fabric can become far more than clothing. It transforms into a narrative, an identity, and even a work of art capable of transcending time and place. This very idea comes to life in “Nusanova 2.0: Sekar Jagat,” an exhibition by renowned Indonesian designer Ivan Gunawan that reinterprets the richness of Indonesia’s traditional textiles through the lens of contemporary fashion.
Rather than presenting his latest creations solely on the runway, Ivan offers visitors a more intimate and reflective experience. Every section of the exhibition invites audiences on a visual journey through his creative process—from the inspiration behind each motif and the careful selection of materials to the transformation of traditional batik into couture pieces rich with artistic and cultural meaning.
At the heart of the exhibition is Sekar Jagat batik from Pamekasan, Madura. Celebrated for its vibrant colors and dynamic visual composition, the iconic motif is reimagined in modern silhouettes that are bold, feminine, and sophisticated. By blending centuries-old craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, each design speaks to today’s generation while remaining deeply rooted in Indonesia’s cultural heritage.
Behind the elegance of every collection lies a powerful message: cultural heritage can only remain alive when it is continuously given room to evolve.
For Ivan Gunawan, fashion serves a much greater purpose than simply following trends. He believes clothing can become a powerful medium for education and a bridge that introduces Indonesia’s rich cultural legacy to wider audiences.
“I want to show that fashion plays an important role in education and culture. That’s why I decided to open this exhibition to the public free of charge, allowing everyone to come, explore, learn, and find inspiration through these works,” said Ivan Gunawan.
His decision to make the exhibition freely accessible reflects his commitment to creating an inclusive space where fashion and art are no longer exclusive to a select audience, but experiences that everyone can enjoy.
This vision has also received praise from Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon. According to him, fashion designers play a strategic role in strengthening the downstream development of Indonesia’s cultural heritage, creating economic value while expanding the global influence of the nation’s traditions.
“Culture is the upstream source, while the creative economy and tourism are its downstream sectors. We need to further develop and add value to our cultural heritage, and fashion designers play a vital role in that process. Through their creativity, they can bring Indonesia’s traditional textiles, including batik, onto the global stage,” Fadli Zon remarked.
His statement underscores how batik has evolved beyond its traditional role. No longer reserved solely for ceremonial occasions or cultural celebrations, batik has become an integral part of the global creative industry—valued not only for its artistic excellence but also for its economic potential and its role as a form of cultural diplomacy.
Through “Nusanova 2.0: Sekar Jagat,” Ivan Gunawan demonstrates that true luxury does not have to come from foreign inspirations. Instead, Indonesia’s own cultural wealth offers an endless source of creativity capable of producing world-class fashion.
Amid the rapid pace of globalization, the exhibition serves as a reminder that the future of Indonesian fashion does not require abandoning tradition. On the contrary, it can be built upon centuries-old motifs, reinterpreted through fresh, contemporary design language that resonates with audiences around the world.
Ultimately, Indonesia’s traditional textiles are about much more than what people wear. They represent how a nation tells its story—through colors, textures, and every thread woven together with pride, craftsmanship, and cultural identity.
