Gusti Ngurah Semarajaya

Gusti Ngurah Semarajaya wood display dolls and carvings

"Tuesday, October 26, 1976 was a happy day for I GustMade Sangging and his wife GustMade Endri. That is the day I was born in a remote village in Bali, the fourth of six children. My parents were farmers who could hardly invest in their children's studies.

"At school, my drawing skill was above average. Besides practicing extracurricular activities, I also took a part-time job finishing and adding color to art products after school until late afternoon.

"After graduating from secondary school, instead of going to an art school I studied at a technical school (equal to senior high). Though my brother had promised to pay for my studies, I still had to work as a laborer, for he could not give me enough money. I never liked this kind of work, therefore at night I often did some paintings; these became my private collection.

"One day, a friend of mine suggested painting on a piece of wood and the result was very nice. Since then, I have been crafting a variety of painted wood products, which sometimes I combine with fabrics."

Handmade: A Global Artisan Marketplace Ubud, Indonesia

"At school, my drawing skill was above average. Besides practicing extracurricular activities, I also took a part-time job finishing and adding color to art products after school until late afternoon.

"After graduating from secondary school, instead of going to an art school I studied at a technical school (equal to senior high). Though my brother had promised to pay for my studies, I still had to work as a laborer, for he could not give me enough money. I never liked this kind of work, therefore at night I often did some paintings; these became my private collection.

"One day, a friend of mine suggested painting on a piece of wood and the result was very nice. Since then, I have been crafting a variety of painted wood products, which sometimes I combine with fabrics."

Bali and Java Artisan Empowerment Hub

Come with us on a journey to the magical Indonesian islands of Bali & Java, where artistry is a way of life, and soothing tropical vibes ease away all stress and tension. These lands are famous for intricate wood carvings, divine silversmith work, and Batik designs that transport you to another time.

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Maker BadgeCaring for Children

In addition to supporting his three children, Gusti also cares for a foster child.

Maker BadgeEnabling Education

Gusti pays for the education of his three children and his foster child.

Maker BadgeJob Creator

Gusti now has artisan assistants who help with the hand-painting of his designs. Each of these assistants works from home.

Maker BadgePreserving Traditions

This artist uses traditional techniques handed down through the generations and/or creates culturally significant items, helping keep these traditions alive.

Maker BadgeMicrocredit Financing

Gusti Ngurah Semarajaya has received 7 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $500 and the most recent for $1000. Proceeds were used to invest in wood and additional labor for production.

Maker BadgeMoving On Up

This artist has dramatically improved their livelihood by working with NOVICA.

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Alternate image for Hand Painted Wood Jewelry Box Mysterious Lady

$49.99

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Hand Painted Wood Jewelry Box 'Mysterious Lady'

$49.99

(7)

Comments

Tasha I have bought several of these beautiful boxes, as they are the perfect gift for those I love. Just as people are unique, an artistic gift such as this is thoughtful and special.

6 more comments

Alternate image for Hand Crafted Wood Jewelry Box Sea Turtle

$59.99

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Hand Crafted Wood Jewelry Box 'Sea Turtle'

$59.99

(11)

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Michele The details in the paint are perfect and beautiful. A skill and talent that is beyond belief.

10 more comments

Alternate image for Hand Carved and Painted Turtle Box with Elephant Motif Turtle and Elephant

$67.99

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Hand Carved and Painted Turtle Box with Elephant Motif 'Turtle and Elephant'

$67.99

(8)

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Debby This is my third item from this artist. So talented.

7 more comments

Alternate image for Unique Floral Jewelry Box Butterfly Garden

$39.99

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Unique Floral Jewelry Box 'Butterfly Garden'

$39.99

(1)

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E Elizabeth I ordered the larger box a few years ago and loved it. When I saw this smaller version with butterflies, I knew it would be the perfect gift for my butterfly loving friend. She loved Gusti's intricate artwork and as a watercolor artist herself, found the details to be extraordinary. It is an affordable piece of art.

Alternate image for Hand Carved Wood Decorated Jewelry Box from Indonesia Bhoma Treasure

$89.95

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Hand Carved Wood Decorated Jewelry Box from Indonesia 'Bhoma Treasure'

$89.95

(2)

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Michael This was a gift for my son-in-law for Christmas. We were both very happy with the craftsmanship and beauty of the box. My SIL received a great gift and I got the satisfaction of giving a great gift.

1 more comment

Alternate image for Hand Crafted Floral Wood Jewelry Box Twin Ladies

$57.99

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Hand Crafted Floral Wood Jewelry Box 'Twin Ladies'

$57.99

(2)

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Robin I have three different painted boxes from this artist. They catch my eye when I walk past. The colors, the scene, and the unique box shapes.

1 more comment

86 Reviews for

January 8, 2024

D Debby

This is my third item from this artist. So talented.

Gusti Ngurah Semarajaya

Gusti Ngurah Semarajaya

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