Cute felines capture Guatemala's joyous spirit in their colorful floral details painted by the talented artisan Jose Arriola. Crafted from ceramic, this set of four ornaments features a whimsical style that evokes a sweet aura. Each little kitten comes equipped with a red polyester cord that allows you to hang them anywhere, and at the end of the season, you can store the pieces in the cotton bag included in the set.

Product Features: 

• Dimension: 8 cm H x 7 cm W x 1 cm D
• Weight: 0.46
• Color: Multicolor
• Material: Ceramic, polyester cord, cotton storage bag
• Made in Guatemala

Story Behind the art:
My full name is Jose Antonio Arriola Rodenas and I come from a happy family that has lived in Antigua for more than 100 years! My grandparents lived with us, as well as two uncles from my mother's side with their families. My dad was a master carver and he was known for his relief work. His work has been awarded by the government and it graces Guatemala's National Palace as well as the U.S. Embassy. On my mother's side, five generations have been dedicated to the beautiful craft of ceramic arts.

That meant that at home we had two workshops - my father's where he worked with one assistant, and my mother's where they specialized in ceramics. Dad's workshop was too serious and somber for me, whereas everyone seemed to be having fun at my mom's. That's how I first got into ceramics, to have fun!

I spent my school holidays there and learnt the craft. My siblings and I would receive some pocket money for us to buy whatever we pleased, and I used to spend it on fireworks and sweets. The first things we were taught to make were animal figurines.

The traditional arts and crafts of Guatemala have had many ups and downs. We went through bad times when we worked hard and barely earned anything. During the Civil War (1977 - 1984) tourism was low and we could hardly sell a thing. However, we managed to pull through as a family.

Working with ceramics has brought me many beautiful things, from learning the craft from my mother and uncles to providing for my family so that my four children can go to the university. I already have a grandchild and my wish for all of them is that are independent people with a career of their choice. That they be responsible and be respectful of God.

I also enjoy tending to my garden and carving, which I learned from my dad. God touched my life many years ago and helped me overcome my problem with drinking through the help of the Catholic Church. Nowadays I try to help people that may need it and I volunteer at a maximum security prison, teaching the word of God. 'It is difficult to make Light present in the darkness.'

The handmade touch of artisan skill creates variations in color, size and design. If buying two of the same item, slight differences should be expected. Note: Color discrepancies may occur between this product and your computer screen.

Imported