Antonietta Johnson

I use a combination of traditional and modern techniques to create my fiber art. As a fiber artist, much of my work is influenced by both traditional and modern batik techniques. Batik is a time consuming art form that requires great care, extensive planning, much patience, and a little luck. The medium requires a great understanding of color mixing and overdying, as each layer of dye mixes with the previous color to create a new mixed color. Not only must the application of dyes and wax be planned carefully, but the temperature of the water, the concentration of dye, the chemical composition of the dye mixture, the temperature of the molten wax, and the ratio of wax, must all be correct to achieve the desired results. Many of my batiks are created using pure molten beeswax and 100% cotton.

Wax is applied using traditional tjanting tools (Dharma's better tjanting tools) as well as a brush. I also use Dharma's fiber reactive dyes. I prefer these dyes to others because these dyes bond with the fiber at a molecular level, becoming chemically part of the fabric. Therefore they are washfast and do not fade even after repeated washings. Over the last few years I have also begun experimenting with dying silk and I go to Dharma for all of my silk needs.

Batik can be a mesmerizing, calming, and sometimes frustrating process. I've learned to embrace and anticipate the unexpected turns the dyes and wax tend to take as part of the process. For me the process is a perfect combination of control and spontaneity. As an artist I learned that you need to let the medium communicate with you. Batik has taught me the importance of process, patience, acceptance, and chance. I enjoy learning the hundreds of different variables that can influence the outcome of a batik. It truly is an inspiring medium. I sell fine art giclee reproductions of my batik work as well as one-of-a-kind silk scarves.

Thank you so much!

Thank you,
Antonietta