This set of illustrations reimagines the iconic Indonesian legend of Roro Jonggrang and Bandung Bondowoso with a dramatic, nighttime aesthetic to amplify the tension and mystique of the story.
The cover illustration captures the confrontation between Roro Jonggrang and Bandung Bondowoso. Set against the towering temples of Prambanan, the scene is alive with energy and contrast. On the left, Roro Jonggrang stands poised and elegant, surrounded by her loyal maidens, their expressions a mix of defiance and fear. On the right, Bandung Bondowoso commands an army of devilish servants, their grotesque forms flying ominously above the temples, adding an otherworldly menace to the scene. The dark, moody tones and dramatic lighting highlight the power struggle and the mythical atmosphere of the story.
The second illustration shifts to a moment of desperation and betrayal. Roro Jonggrang, cloaked in the shadows of the night, is shown running away from Bandung Bondowoso, her flowing garments and wide-eyed expression capturing her urgency and fear. The dim moonlight and long shadows emphasize the tension, while the rich, dark color palette adds to the emotional weight of the scene.
These illustrations were created with a focus on mood and storytelling, using dynamic compositions and dramatic lighting to convey the legend’s themes of power, cunning, and tragedy. The dark hues and nighttime setting immerse viewers in the tale’s intensity, making it both visually striking and emotionally resonant.
This process allowed me to craft illustrations that are visually rich and emotionally resonant, staying true to the story’s mythical roots while being accessible to a younger audience. It’s a celebration of Indonesian folklore, blending tradition with artistry to inspire curiosity and wonder in the next generation
The work process began with detailed sketches, focusing on the composition and character poses to ensure the illustrations told the story clearly. Once the sketches were finalized, I moved on to base colors, choosing a muted palette with subtle contrasts to evoke the nighttime atmosphere. Shading came next, where I used layered textures and gradients to add depth and dimension, making the characters and surroundings feel grounded yet magical. Highlights were carefully applied to emphasize the light sources, like the moon and glowing temples, creating a sense of drama and guiding the viewer’s eye through the scene. Finally, I added finishing touches, like intricate details on the temples and subtle atmospheric effects, to enhance the mood and bring everything together..
🌌 A tribute to Indonesia’s folklore, these illustrations aim to breathe new life into the story of Roro Jonggrang, connecting audiences to the timeless magic of its myth and culture.
🌌 A tribute to Indonesia’s folklore, these illustrations aim to breathe new life into the story of Roro Jonggrang, connecting audiences to the timeless magic of its myth and culture.