Non-Verbal Communication Aspect in Paper Umbrella Craft as Intangible Cultural Heritage in Malang

Abstract

Paper umbrellas are one of the crafts included in the intangible cultural heritage of Malang, East Java. Currently, it is known that there is only one group of craftsmen who still produce this paper umbrella craft. Although not many of them, this paper umbrella craft still exists among people who like traditional handicrafts. This is evident from how often paper umbrella crafts appear at craft exhibitions in cities in Indonesia. Consequently, there is a pressing need for in-depth research on paper umbrella craftsmanship in Malang City. A valuable avenue for exploration is the examination of non-verbal communication aspects inherent in paper umbrella craftsmanship. This study aimed to determine the non-verbal communication aspects contained in paper umbrella crafts. The research employs a descriptive qualitative approach, focusing on analyzing non-verbal communication aspects. Data was collected using unstructured interview methods, documentation, and field surveys. The collected data was reduced for analysis using nonverbal communication theory. The study findings are presented descriptively, detailing the observed non-verbal communication aspects. The findings reveal three distinct categories of non-verbal communication aspects in paper umbrella craftsmanship: fixed features, semi-fixed features, and non-fixed features. Fixed features include shapes depicted on the umbrella. Semi fixed feature is a choice of material used to make paper umbrellas, colors, and motifs. The materials used are bamboo and paper. The colors of the umbrellas are red and green. The motif drawn on the umbrella is a floral motif. Flowers are present because they are the favorite shapes of the craftsmen who make umbrellas. Non-fixed features encompass the entire process of crafting paper umbrellas, from material preparation to final finishing touches. Keywords: umbrella paper, craft, tangible cultural heritage