Ketut Sandi

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The artistry of I Ketut Sandi has been featured in numerous periodicals and on Oxygen TV.

Every time I think about my childhood, I remember that what I really wanted to do was what I'm doing now. But because times were hard, I tried to learn how to do other things, like painting and normal statue carving – all to be able to make ends meet. In the end, however, what finally worked for me was to make my chess tables. It is always our dreams and our belief in life that give us the best results, no matter how difficult the dream or how sore our feet get during the journey.

I started to learn how to carve in 1968 and began my full-time apprenticeship in 1981. I studied under a master carver who taught me how to be more creative, even with ordinary figures. His creativity sparked my own. It was then that I had the idea to create chess sets, not only in the Western style, but also in a style that reflected Balinese culture.

I tried to sell my chess tables at art fairs, but couldn't make enough money to support my family. So I tried to sell them on my own, walking up and down the streets of nearby villages. After a while of hard times and sore feet, I was introduced to you. I was very happy because you were appreciative of my ideas. Soon, I was able to take care of my family, send my children to school, and focus on making even better quality carvings.

I have now spent many years of my life crafting chess sets, and finally consider my efforts a success. My wife, Wayan Putri, and 15 helpers now work with me to create these sets. We all learn together and work together happily, and continue to invent new designs.

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NOVICA was started with a dream to create a better world for artisans, because a better world for artisans is a better world for all.

Along the way, the founders of NOVICA discovered something very important - as artisans around the world succeeded, there was also a visible and profound impact on the communities around them.

Your purchases are that powerful. They directly and indirectly provide for education, help with health care, fund basic needs, support children, preserve disappearing arts, and of course, spread happiness around the world.

The founders of NOVICA had a vision of the future that is not one of mega factories producing cookie cutter products for all to cheaply consume. Instead, a bright future that celebrates artisans who take the time to create an item by hand. A future where time is protected, where stories are told, where unique details are honored. Love, respect, inclusiveness become driving force.

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