Imagine bringing the essence of an entire culture to life on a miniature scale — each stitch, fabric texture and accessory speaking volumes about its origins.
That’s the artistry behind every piece by Borneo Doll, where authenticity and cultural richness take centre stage.
With a dedication to remaining true to traditional aesthetics, the creator embarks on an in-depth journey for every garment.
This dedication has not only resonated with younger generations but has also introduced the world to Borneo’s cultural heritage in a way that’s deeply inspiring.
Every miniature masterpiece by Borneo Doll isn’t just a garment; it’s a cultural celebration stitched together with creativity, respect, and a passion for preservation.
Sarawak Tribune spoke with Wesley Juntan, founder and designer of Borneo Doll, a creative venture crafting custom Barbie dolls that celebrate Malaysia’s indigenous cultures.
In case you missed it, this Sibu-born talented man has been featured in numerous media, including Tatler Asia, captivated by his dedication and craftsmanship.
Here’s a glimpse into our inspiring exchange:
How do you approach capturing the cultural significance of traditional attire on such a small scale?
When it comes to designing, I always stay as close to my aesthetic as possible, which is to maintain the cultural element as best as I could. Because each traditional costume is unique, as we all know, it requires extensive research and constantly develops new approaches. That’s what makes our culture unique and colourful.
What are some unexpected materials or techniques you’ve used to mimic traditional fabrics and textures?
The unconventional materials are the ones I’ve utilised the most unexpectedly during this journey. To get the look I wanted, I had to use my imagination. I’ve utilised wires, clays, traditional straw hats, woven baskets, and a lot more. What I adore most about this art is that it uses things you wouldn’t normally think of to make clothing. Every time I experimented with new materials and designs, I would get enthusiastic.
How do you go about learning the intricate details of traditional outfits — do you research or draw from personal experience?
I have to conduct extensive research on each garment in order to preserve the cultural element as much as possible. These days, I can conduct some research at home with just my fingertips, thanks to technology. Unfortunately, not all information can be found online. I have to ask around at this point, especially from specialists and seniors who are eager to offer their wisdom. If I had the time, I would seek out the authentic costume and see it for myself.
How do you decide which accessories to pair with the traditional dresses, and do you make those as well?
Basically, the traditional attire and its accessories complement each other. All of the traditional costumes, especially in Borneo, come with culturally specific accessories like headpieces and jewellery. I want to maintain these elements in order to keep the culture intact. Just so you know, I also make all of the accessories from scratch that are similar to the actual ones, just like the garments.
What do you find most rewarding about bringing cultural attire to life in such a unique way?
The fact that my artistic journey has influenced many others, particularly the younger generation, is the most rewarding aspect. I am very happy to learn that Borneo Doll has also introduced a lot of traditional costumes of Borneo to the rest of Malaysia and the world. I am hoping that these small steps will have a significant impact on our culture in the future.
