Unveiling the Journey of Balinese Artisans
In the heart of Mas Village, near Ubud, Gianyar, Bali, lies the story of I Wayan Suwena, a talented wood crafter whose passion for sculpting runs deep in his veins. Growing up in a family of wood artisans, Wayan’s journey into the world of wood carving began at the tender age of 7, under the guidance of his father. Over the span of 41 years, his dedication and innate talent have transformed him into a master craftsman, proficient in a wide range of styles, from traditional Balinese to modern interpretations. Inspired by Balinese mythology, Wayan’s creations are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of his homeland.
Crafting Resilience: The Story of I Wayan Suwena and His Wood Artistry
Before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Wayan’s life was filled with the rhythm of his craft. He actively participated in international exhibitions, showcasing his intricate wood sculptures and even demonstrated his skills by carving a liberty wood statue in the embassy building in Jakarta. However, when the pandemic struck, Wayan’s world turned upside down. With restrictions on travel and gatherings, his sources of income dwindled, and he found himself struggling to make ends meet. Faced with the harsh reality of lost customers and diminished opportunities, Wayan had to temporarily set aside his passion for sculpting and take up manual labor to support his family. In addition to his woodworking skills, he also worked as a driver, utilizing every opportunity to earn a living.
Despite the challenges he faced, Wayan remained steadfast in his determination to preserve and promote the art of wood carving, especially among the younger generation. He recognized the importance of passing down traditional craftsmanship to future artisans and was committed to nurturing their interest in the craft. With unwavering resilience, Wayan continued to dream of a brighter future for wood art in Indonesia.
When Wayan discovered ARTISANA, a new showroom for Indonesian artisans to showcase their work, he saw it as a ray of hope. Here was an opportunity to reintroduce his creations to the world and connect with a global audience. With renewed enthusiasm, Wayan joined the ARTISANA community, eager to share his passion for wood art with a new generation of enthusiasts.
Words from Him: I want to introduce and develop Wood Art to the young generation.
Fostering Hope: ARTISANA and the Resurgence of Indonesian Artisanal Tradition
In the face of adversity, Indonesian artisans like I Wayan Suwena exemplify resilience and creativity. Despite the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, Wayan’s unwavering passion for wood carving has endured. Through platforms like ARTISANA, he and other artisans have found a new showroom for their work, enabling them to continue pursuing their craft and sharing their cultural heritage with the world. As Wayan endeavors to introduce wood art to the younger generation, his story serves as an inspiration to artisans everywhere, reminding us of the enduring power of creativity and determination.
