According to Kalya, her work showcases the magnificent literature of the nation. The eco-print artwork emphasizes her love and appreciation for the world. “Artistic creativity has the ability to elevate various works of Indonesian literature, which is our cultural heritage,” declared Kalya, who also masters numerous Indonesian traditional dances.
Kalya usually needs only ten days to create her artwork from scratch, from creating concept to finish. “We also use bags and hats that are specially ordered from MSMEs in the Baduy community to accentuate the models’ appearances on the runway,” said Kalya.
Kalya’s products are all aimed at children aged 13 to 16. Kalya admitted that she was very proud and grateful to be involved as one of the youngest designers to appear at the 2023 Tangerang Modest Fashion Week.
She aspires to involve more Indonesian literature and culture from other regions, “Perhaps Dayak or Labuan Bajo literature, that corelates well with eco-print,” she smiled.
Dewi Damayanti, Chair of the Indonesian Eco-Printer Association (AEPI) for the DKI Jakarta area, admitted that she was happy to collaborate with Kalya Mahiya, who is only 13 years old. “Despite her being 13, her designs are very good. Kalya is a smart girl, so I asked her to join the 2023 Tangerang Modest Fashion Week and collaborate with me—Kalya with her clothes and I with my wire jewelry,” said Dewi.
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The models running down the catwalk were accentuated with Dewi’s handmade accessories, made of Indonesian copper and stones. “I named the accessories True Love, as Kalya has named her designs. Pink and black are the dominant colors in these accessories, which we also mix with copper,” expressed Dewi, who assembled her six looks’ accessories in just a week.
Dewi believes that local products are as wonderful and creative as foreign products.
We are rooting for you and looking forward to your next breakthroughs, Dewi and Kalya! (des)
