Ketut Sandi

hand-carved chess sets and relief panels

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

1 review

Caring for Children This artist supports children under the age of 18. Job Creator This artist positively impacts their community through job creation and provides jobs for 2 or more people. Preserving Traditions This artist uses traditional techniques handed down through the generations and/or creates culturally significant items, helping keep these traditions alive. Microcredit Financing Ketut Sandi has received 2 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $1200 and the most recent for $1200. Proceeds were used to stock up on the wood he needs for his hand-carved artistry.

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Ketut Sandi hand-carved chess sets and relief panels

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."

Handmade: A Global Artisan Marketplace Ubud, Indonesia

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."

Bali and Java Fulfillment 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.

Maker BadgeCaring for Children

This artist supports children under the age of 18.

Maker BadgeJob Creator

This artist positively impacts their community through job creation and provides jobs for 2 or more people.

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

Ketut Sandi has received 2 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $1200 and the most recent for $1200. Proceeds were used to stock up on the wood he needs for his hand-carved artistry.

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