For many vacationers to Bali, Sukawati traditional art
market in Gianyar is a must-visit spot. Located around 20 kilometers from Denpasar, the market
offers a myriad of art, craft, clothing and accessories at bargain prices.
While its popularity has begun to fade over the last few
years, as large souvenir shops have sprouted up selling similar items, Sukawati
market remains an attractive shopping destination.
The market is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day. But a
morning visit is best. Kiosk owners usually give discounted prices to their
first customers, believing that this will open the gateway to luck for the day.
Like others traditional markets, Sukawati’s design and
layout is very basic. The two story building is quite gloomy, with narrow alleys
packed with kiosks on both sides.
Many of the kiosks sell handicrafts made of wood, bamboo and
plastic as well as textiles. Some also sell painting portraying Balinese
dancers or the island’s panorama. Local painters living nearby the market
produce most of the paintings
There are also kiosks selling wooden statues, masks,
Balinese dance costumes and home décor. The market offers a large variety of
clothing, T-shirt, bed covers and table cloths, to traditional Balinese songket
and endek woven cloth.
Buyers have to be smart and bargain for their favorite
pieces which can be found at different prices across the market. One kiosk may
be selling a painting for a certain price, while another could have a better
price. But do be carful to check the quality of anything that you want to buy before
you make that purchase.
People come to Sukawati on their way to various tourist
destinations located between Denpasar and Gianyar. Other customers feel good
knowing more about the life of local Balinese artisans. Many of the kiosk
owners are the artists themselves. We can learn more about their lives and the
challenges they face to sell their products. Interaction with local artisans
and sellers is one of the interesting parts of visiting Sukawati.
Despite the decreasing volume of business, Sukawati
traditional market has always been considered a living memory of the once
robust Balinese handicraft industry and proof of the local people’s creativity
and artistic talent.