Handmade Balsa Wood Mask with Hand-Painted Motifs 'Tropical Fauna' Item ID: 2671772007

"Our cooperative was created in March of 2003 in Costa Rica's indigenous territory of Guatuso. We began with the idea of making an opportunity for our handicrafts to stand out and be unique in our country. With time, we hoped they'd become known internationally. That's when we decided to form a group of artisans who were passionate about new ideas.

"In 2003, we began to create our first art work with paintings, carved dried gourds, painted bamboo, masks carved from balsa wood and gourd canteens, among other crafts. We worked with the materials Mother Nature offered us.

"In each one of the designs we create, we seek to share our culture, traditions and customs. They are all crafted with love and we use techniques we've been taught since we were children. These art forms are passed from generation to generation, and are our legacy.

"This is why we design, create and paint the colorful flora and fauna that Costa Rica is known for — we are rich in so many species. We strive to make our designs original and that they all carry a glimpse of our culture.

"As a group, we source our materials here in this area and some are grown in our garden. Once we have all the materials, we prepare them so we can begin to work. We also use recycled and sustainable materials. And I want to emphasize that everything we make is crafted by hand.

"When designing, we think about the people who might like our work and we keep our prices accessible so that they're within the reach of everyone. We work with love."