This is the second painting in the ‘Torch Ginger series’ by the artist. This time, the subject is the red torch ginger (Etlingera elatior), sourced from the plant collection at the Bogor Botanical Gardens. Created with the artist’s favorite medium of watercolour on paper, the painting exhibits bright and translucent colours typical of the medium.

The focus of this painting is on the captivating red torch ginger blossom, with its unique shape resembling a torch. Intricate details are depicted, from the glossy red bracts with white edges to the bright red single flower petals with yellow edges, and even to the parts of the blossom starting to dry and turn brown. The presence of budding flowers adds harmony to the composition and provides insight into the growth phases.

In Indonesia, Etlingera elatior is known by various other names such as kecombrang (Javanese), honje (Sundanese), kecicang (Balinese), kincung (Medan), asam cekala (Karo), sambuang (Minangkabau), jaong (Kutai), takalu (Dayak Ma’anyan), and lucu (Banyuwangi). The diversity of local names indicates the widespread familiarity and utilization of this plant across different regions of Indonesia. Torch ginger is often used as a culinary ingredient to enhance flavor and aroma. Additionally, it is believed to have medicinal properties due to its antioxidant compounds such as flavonoids and phenolics.

This painting is intended not only to showcase visual beauty but also to broaden understanding of the uniqueness and benefits of Etlingera elatior, a plant rich in Indonesian culture and tradition.