BFrens studio patron Budianto says he is taking advantage of the opportunity of the holy month of Ramadhan, especially to make the fragile painted goods to be used during celebratory events.

"It seems current public interest is largely toward glass art, so we are focusing on this," Budianto said over the weekend, as quoted by Antara news agency.

Budianto, along with four other artists in the studio, which includes his daughter Charir Maulita, are able to reap the benefits by marketing the items through conventional methods, as well as on social media. 

"We use the networking system in marketing by utilizing Facebook or Instagram. And from that, we receive the orders," he said.

In addition to bringing economic benefits, Budianto says marketing glass art could encourage young artists in the studio to be more motivated at work, as well as supporting the studio in creating artwork on other materials, such as bamboo, bottles, canvas, paper and stone.

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Budianto says in a day he could produce either two vases or 15 glasses with a simple pattern, adding that the length of time is necessary due to the skills and attention needed to paint on the tube-shaped medium. His 17-year-old daughter Charir, he noted, is especially skillful in image design and motif making.

"The sale price starts at Rp 10,000 [less than US$1] per unit for a small glass or a shot glass, and up to Rp 100,000 for a medium-sized vase with a full-colored image," he said.

Budianto adds that orders have been flowing in prior to the start of Ramadhan, saying customers encompass local residents of Tulungagung, stretching to neighboring regencies like Trenggalek, Kediri, Blitar and Sidoarjo.

"Yes, we are racing against time to finish before Idul Fitri. We also welcome customers to bring their own jars or glasses," Budianto said. (liz/kes)