Product Description
It's Cactus Haitian Metal Art
Handcrafted Haitian Folk Art, Minimalistic Mermaid Giving Thanks, Beach Home 23"x23"
The traditional Haitian method of creating metal sculptures from discarded oil drums has changed very little since the technique was first developed by Georges Liataud in the 1950's. To begin, the drums are burned out, cleaned up, sanded down and pounded flat. Next, the artist chalks his intended design onto the prepared metal and begins the heavy and tedious work of cutting and detailing, using only a hammer and chisel. Finally, the sculpture is sealed with a weather-proof finish, so that the sculpture may be displayed easily indoors or out.
Artist Bio
Julio Balan
Born in 1970, Julio Balan is considered one of the most talented metal sculptors on the island. Many, many young artists began their apprenticeships in his workshop, respecting his skill, and regarding him highly. He is married with six children and fills his themes with lively patterns that tell us of an everyday life that is productive, spiritual and satisfying. His work continues to gain an international reputation.
Julio Balan and his three brothers - Jonas, Joel, and Romel - were taught by their close neighbor, Darius Gary. In their lakou, or shared compound, the Balans often work together to produce art from metal drum pieces. Like many of the other sculptors, Voodoo influences their art, with La Sirene, the mermaid being prominent. Additionally, trees of life flourish in many of Julio's sculptoral pieces and lately he has been experimenting with "tall skinnies" - disproportionately long and thin figures performing the actiities of daily life.
