“I was born in Mas, Ubud, Bali in 1973 with the given name I Made Sudana. Yet my friends call me Wek, or Wek Bali. I am the second youngest son of my parents. Mas, Ubud, is the center of wood sculpting in Bali; many people who live here are wood sculptors. My parents were also respected woodcarvers, and their works were highly appreciated by their loyal customers.
“My childhood was fun, and I studied until I graduated from senior high school. Then I directly become a woodcarver. I had already learned how to become a carpenter at the age of 6. I was interested in this field because wood carving has been my ancestors’ legacy. I am happy and proud to carry on what has been in my family for years.
“Besides making wood sculptures, I also have a class for those who would like to learn to carve. In normal times, many foreigners would join my class, and also domestic tourists would like to learn. But in this pandemic age, I rely only on selling sculptures. I use various raw materials, from suar wood and hibiscus wood to cendana wood. Sometimes I used crocodile wood. Each of them has its own characteristics and requires different treatment.
“Now I am married to a beautiful woman who has given me one son and one daughter so far. I love my family so much, and as a Balinese person I am glad that I have a son who can carry on my name. He seems a bit interested in wood carving, too, but I am not going to force him to follow my path and become a woodcarver as well. I will let him decide for himself.
“As a man from a small village, I liked to play football when I was younger. But, today I think I don’t have the energy and strength to play football anymore. I just watch it on television, especially when the domestic competitions start. Watching football is one of my ways to relieve stress.
“Not long ago, a fellow woodcarver said that Novica could help me during this difficult time. Novica is a good company that still has many loyal customers. I hope I can be one of the customers’ favorite artisans. And in return, I would like to give my best in my works, and assure them that quality is always my concern.”
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