Drie batikkende vrouwen 1912

This photograph by Onnes Kurkdjian captures three women engaged in the traditional art of batik. There is such incredible detail here, when you look closely, you can see the intricate patterns they're creating on the fabric. The photograph has a tactile quality. You can almost feel the wax being applied to the cloth, imagine the slow, deliberate process of building up these complex designs. This isn't just about representation, it’s about a lived experience. It makes me think about how artists use their hands, like these women, to turn an idea into something real and lasting. I like how Kurkdjian captures not only their craft but also their presence. Look at the faces of the women: there is a deep feeling of thoughtfulness, of focus, even contentment. You can see that their work is a conversation between material, image, and maker, very similar to the working processes of women artists such as Harmony Hammond and Miriam Schapiro. The image embraces ambiguity, reminding us that the best art invites us to linger, to look closely, and to find our own connections.