Tuty The Turtle: A Batik-Painted Odyssey Under the Sea

‘Tuty the Turtle’ Written and illustrated by Nor Azhar Ishak tells a story that goes beyond the pages of a picture book; readers are immersed not only in the heartwarming tale of a tiny turtle’s quest for survival but also in the visually stunning world crafted using batik painting technique.

Tuty, the tiny turtle, embarks on a captivating journey as she emerges from her shell, finding herself alone with no sign of her mother. Escaping from big birds, Tuty seeks refuge in the vast ocean, laying the foundation for a riveting narrative of resilience and resourcefulness. In the expansive sea, Tuty’s quest is not only a tale of survival but also a heartfelt search for her missing mother.

Beyond the captivating story, ‘Tuty The Turtle’ subtly educates children about the marine environment. Azhar seamlessly weaves in the impact of pollution on sea life, with Tuty encountering a near miss with a plastic bag. This environmental theme provides an excellent opportunity for parents and educators to discuss conservation with young readers.

Now, let’s delve into the realm of illustrations. Just as the ocean serves as a canvas for a multitude of intricate life forms and dynamic currents, Azhar, a trained Chemist, employs a blend of melted beeswax and paraffin to outline his illustrations. Subsequently, he applies batik dyes, skillfully crafting a vibrant palette that encapsulates the essence of the sea.

According to Azhar, he dedicated substantial time to practice before embarking on this picture book project. He revels in experimentation, persisting until he achieves the desired effects for each illustration. The process demands considerable patience, as the intricate works may take a while to complete. Adjusting the colours to attain the envisioned composition and harmony adds another layer to the meticulous journey of bringing each piece to its final form.

The illustrative technique for this book seamlessly intertwines with the oceanic theme, creating a visual tapestry that mirrors the depth and diversity of the underwater world. The abstract waves, meticulously rendered with batik strokes, mimic the ebb and flow of ocean tides, while the textured depth achieved through the sprinkling of salt adds a tactile dimension reminiscent of the sea’s natural textures. Through this artistic marriage of batik and oceanic elements, Azhar not only tells the story of Tuty’s underwater odyssey but also transforms each page into a living, breathing masterpiece that echoes the beauty and complexity of the ocean.

‘Tuty the Turtle’ is selected for the iBBY Honour List 2022 for its high-quality illustrations.

Title: Tuty the Turtle
Author/Illustrator: Nor Azhar Ishak
ISBN: 9789672384342
Publisher: Oyez!Books
Year published: 2020