Irene Saputra Invents Elaborate, Playful Outfits in Her Vibrant Embroideries
Composite from the series ‘Arak Arakan Sepi.’ All images courtesy of Irene Seputra, shared with permission
Irene Saputra Invents Elaborate, Playful Outfits in Her Vibrant Embroideries
November 3, 2025
ArtCraftDesign
Kate Mothes
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Flowers, stars, leaves, eyes, and countless patterns transform into billowing garments in Irene Saputra’s vibrant embroideries. The South Jakarta-based artist, who also goes by Nengiren, repeats the playful motif of nona kecil, which means “little woman” in Indonesian.
Saputra’s fashion-forward character might be described as a clotheshorse who dons numerous bold outfits, some of which seem to have personalities of their own. Saputra has often referred to these styles as OOTD’s, or outfits of the day, borrowing from a hashtag historically used by fashion influencers on social media.
“Arak Arakan Sepi 2”
The faceless figure’s cropped bob and black boots are the only commonality, as always-symmetrical wide-leg trousers or dresses vary widely. Through color, scale, and repetition, Saputra’s hand-stitched characters also coordinate and complement one another. Some, like the Arak Arakan Sepi series—meaning “quiet procession” in Indonesian—are more abstract and bulbous, while others, like “ARTSUBS,” depict more realistic outfits.
Saputra draws on a background in graphic design and illustration, which she applies to her fiber compositions. Through the lens of women’s fashion and personal expression, she channels optimism and her own journey of motherhood. Find more on Instagram.
“ARTSUBS”
“Soft Spot”
Detail of “Soft Spot”
“Kebun Tengah Malam”
Detail of “Kebun Tengah Malam”
Arak Arakan Sepi 1
“Melankoli Biru”
“Musim Menyapa Kembali”
Arak Arakan Sepi 3
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