Celebrating Noken Papua

Today’s Doodle, illustrated by Depok-based guest artist Danu Fitra, celebrates Noken, the craft of traditional handmade bags that holds great cultural and socio-economic significance throughout Indonesia’s Papua and West Papua Provinces. In recent years the longevity of this staple of Papuan heritage has come under threat, but following its addition to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List in Need of Urgent Safeguarding on this day in 2012, great strides have been taken to secure Noken’s sustainability for future generations. 

Noken bags are typically made from materials like tree fibers, bark, or leaves, which are processed into strong threads and then knotted or woven together. This complex handcraft has been passed down through the generations and demands refined tactile skill, dedicated care, and no shortage of artistic vision. The end product is a durable and versatile bag commonly used to transport and store things like food or firewood, and even to carry small children or animals! 

Outside of its everyday use, Noken has traditionally fulfilled many social and economic purposes as well. For example, Noken serves as a symbol of cultural unification among more than 250 ethnic groups in the region; due to its value, it can be used as a type of savings; and it often plays a symbolic role in the peaceful resolution of disputes.

 Here’s to a timeless craft that’s inextricably woven into the fabric of Indonesian culture!

Guest Artist Q&A with Danu Fitra

Today’s Doodle was illustrated by Depok-based guest artist Danu Fitra. Below, he shares his thoughts behind the making of this Doodle:

Q: Why was this topic meaningful to you personally? 

A: I've always wanted to be able to visit eastern Indonesia, especially Papua. Papua has a variety of cultures (one of which is Noken), ethnic groups, and beautiful landscapes.

Q: What were your first thoughts when you were approached about the project?

A: It was very unexpected—this is one of my dream projects. Also, It's an honor for me to be able to help introduce a part of Indonesian cultural heritage.

Q: Did you draw inspiration from anything in particular for this Doodle?

A: I knew that Noken has a few philosophies, one of which is being a symbol of good life and prosperity because the Noken was made from the materials in the forest and then used to bring some crops from the forest. I illustrated two Papuan women on their way home from the forest and using their Noken to bring crops, one of their daily needs. Also, I couldn’t forget to illustrate the Honai (one of the traditional houses in Papua) and a beautiful landscape in Papua: Baliem Valley. The typeface is inspired by the Noken's shape itself, and the decorative elements are inspired by the Noken's pattern.  

Q: What do you hope people take away from your Doodle?

A: I hope this Doodle can help introduce an Indonesian cultural heritage that has been recognized by UNESCO to a wider audience.