About Us

Our Story

Studio Dapur was born from a profound respect for bamboo craftsmanship and a commitment to uplifting artisan communities. Nestled in the serene village of Padakembang, on the fertile slopes of Galunggung in Tasikmalaya, West Java, we collaborate closely with local artisans to create ethically made, high-quality bamboo products.

Bamboo crafts have long been undervalued, often associated with hastily made, low-quality items. This perception undermines the true potential of bamboo as a sustainable, green material. At Studio Dapur, we aim to break this cycle by working hand-in-hand with artisans to produce exquisite bamboo pieces that honor traditional techniques while meeting contemporary standards. Our mission is to enhance the economic value of bamboo crafts, ensuring artisans receive fair compensation for their exceptional skills.

Meet Our Master Artisan: Pak Toto

Central to our journey is our collaboration with Master Bamboo Artisan, Pak Toto. With over 30 years of experience, his expertise has been instrumental in shaping Studio Dapur's design philosophy. Our partnership began during our Founder's college design project, where we sought the perfect craftsman to bring our prototypes to life. After visiting numerous villages in Tasikmalaya, we were captivated by Pak Toto's unparalleled craftsmanship.

His journey started in 1983 under the mentorship of renowned artists Chairin Hayati and Ahadiat Joedawinata in Bandung. Together, they revolutionized bamboo craftsmanship in West Java, introducing innovative techniques and designs that have become classics in the region. Their legacy continues to inspire countless bamboo artisans today.

Empowering Our Artisan Family

Since our official launch in late 2016, Studio Dapur has grown into a vibrant community. As of 2024, we collaborate with 25 artisans, with 37% of them being talented women. Notably, most of our artisans are from the young generation, with six of them under 35 and had no prior experience with bamboo craftsmanship before joining us. We are dedicated to providing training and opportunities, fostering a new generation of skilled artisans.

Our Commitment to the Community

We believe in giving back to the community that enriches our craft. Studio Dapur allocates 10% of its profits to initiatives focused on financial support, livelihood improvements, research and development, and productivity enhancements. This commitment ensures that our success directly contributes to the well-being and growth of the village.

At Studio Dapur, every product is a testament to the dedication, skill, and cultural heritage of our artisans. We invite you to join us in celebrating and preserving this timeless craft.