Alicia Putri
Apr 29, 2025
In celebration of Kartini Day, Ascott Waterplace Surabaya hosted a special edition of Ascott Soiree, a global art appreciation program that brings creativity and culture together in the hospitality space. This year’s event, themed Fine Craftsmanship, invited female expatriate residents to join a pottery workshop that combined hands-on artistic expression with elements of Surabaya’s rich local heritage.
In celebration of Kartini Day, Ascott Waterplace Surabaya hosted a special edition of Ascott Soiree
Held at The Terrace, the event gathered women from various nationalities to create pottery pieces using two traditional techniques: handbuilding and wheeling. Participants were guided to shape their own works of art, each designed with a unique touch. As an added cultural experience, the pottery featured Batik Semanggi, a distinctive Surabayan batik pattern inspired by the Semanggi leaf, an icon often found in the city’s traditional dish, Pecel Semanggi.
“Ascott doesn’t just provide accommodation, we offer immersive art experiences,” said Budhi Sanjaya, General Manager of Ascott Waterplace Surabaya. “Through events like Ascott Soiree, we bring our guests closer to Indonesian culture, especially as we commemorate Kartini Day, which celebrates women’s empowerment.”
The workshop provided more than just a creative outlet. It served as a meaningful tribute to Indonesia’s artistic legacy, particularly in highlighting regional batik designs that are often less recognized. “Batik is a living heritage. By introducing Surabaya’s local motifs through pottery, we help preserve and share this tradition with a global audience,” added Mia Christina, Assistant Residence Manager.
At the end of the event, participants took home semi-finished pottery, dried using a torching technique. These handcrafted pieces served as artistic mementos that captured not only their individual creativity but also their connection to Indonesian culture.
The event was met with enthusiasm, with one guest from Japan expressing her delight, “Creating pottery is challenging, but the Semanggi batik is beautiful. This has been such an exciting experience!”