In the heart of Bali lies the village of Celuk’s Silver Craft, historically renowned as a hub for exquisite silver craftsmanship. Nearly every household in Celuk was engaged in silverwork during its peak in the 1980s, producing intricate designs that captivated locals and tourists. However, recent trends indicate a decline in this age-old tradition, primarily due to the younger generation’s waning interest in continuing the craft.
Nyoman Rupadana, the village head of Celuk’s Silver Craft, observes that while the participatory method of skill transmission—where children and close relatives learn directly by assisting artisans—remains unchanged, the enthusiasm among the youth has diminished. Modern educational demands and extracurricular activities occupy much of their time, leaving little room for traditional crafts. Consequently, the number of active silver artisans has dwindled to about 100 households out of approximately 300, with many older craftsmen finding it challenging to continue due to age-related limitations.
Several initiatives have been introduced to rejuvenate Celuk’s status as Bali’s silver craft center. The establishment of the Industrial Small and Medium Enterprises (IKM) center in Celuk aims to provide training and support to artisans, aligning with the “one village, one product” concept. This center offers skill enhancement and emphasizes the importance of maintaining silver purity standards and securing intellectual property rights to protect original designs.
Moreover, integrating modern machinery has expanded the range of silver products beyond traditional ceremonial items, catering to contemporary tastes and boosting export potential. In 2019, the Indonesian government recognized the cultural significance of Celuk’s silver craftsmanship by designating it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. This acknowledgment underscores the importance of preserving and promoting this unique art form for future generations like this event.
The challenge remains to inspire the youth of Celuk to embrace and innovate within this craft, ensuring that the village’s legacy of silver artistry continues to shine brightly in the years to come.
Taken from: Nusa Bali
