Mermaid

CCAC #: 0012
Artwork title: Mermaid
Organisation: Ahinsha
Year made: Unknown
Artwork type: Textile
Medium: Batik on cloth
Dimensions (mm): 1170 x 1055
Source: Donated by Albie Sachs
Year acquired: 1999
Installation type: Movable artwork
Current location: On private display
Signage:

Mermaid is a batik textile produced by Ahinsha, an organisation based in Sri Lanka. The work is made using the batik technique, where wax is applied to cloth before dyeing to create patterns and imagery.

The mermaid figure combines human and aquatic forms, drawing on storytelling and imagination. The work reflects artistic traditions connected to fabric, pattern, and handcrafted production.

Themes: Identity and representation
Cultural Heritage
Constitutional links: Language and culture rights (section 30)
Rights of cultural, religious and linguistic communities (section 31)

CCAC 432562

Photographer: Ben Law-Viljoen
Photo copyright: CCT

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NOTE: The process of photographing artworks in the CCAC is underway - we are currently working to improve image quality and display on the CMS but have included internal reference photos for identification purposes in the interim.