Meet Nensi Dwi Ratna

I was born on 21 November 1991 in Lambanapu, near Kambaniru Dam. I arrived earlier than expected, while my mother was gathering firewood. She raised my sister and me on her own, with Ikat supporting our family. I grew up watching her work. From her, I learned that weaving is knowledge carried from one generation to the next.

I met my biological father for the first time in 2009. Ten years later, he returned and began teaching me natural dyeing. He started with indigo because it is one of the hardest colours to master. My first work was a blue indigo deer, which I still keep. Indigo connected me to my father and helped me find confidence in my own work and in myself as a woman.

Choosing to give my life to Sumbanese culture took courage. The music and example of Kahi Ata Ratu, a Jungga artist who made her own path, helped me make decisions for my future. I also find strength in the ocean, the sky and the relationship my ancestors built with nature. Their respect for what the land gives us continues to shape the cloth I make.

I want women in my community to see the depth of what they know and to share it with the next generation. Through Kabeli La Kambu Ina, I hope to build a place where women weave, teach and exchange stories: a living library for Sumbanese people and visitors alike. Ikat is more than an object to sell. It carries our histories, our hopes and our care for nature.