Guena

"In 1980 I left behind a career as an accountant and I dove into the artistic universe. I began as an artisan's assistant and a sculptor, and gradually I became fascinated with gems and crystals. Soon after, I was exhibiting my work at local art fairs and markets.

"Despite the fact my academic formation revolved around sitting behind a desk, now I can tell you I could never go back to a technical or bureaucratic job – I have more patience for art than for logic!

"Nowadays I travel throughout Brazil in search of crystals from Bahia, emeralds from Minas Gerais, agates from Rio Grande do Sul, and many other naturally-occurring wonders. I continuously learn new techniques and craft different products. I realize I have experienced a great personal transformation. Although many times difficult, I have learned that the path of an artisan is a path without return in which a person experiences beauty to the maximum, as well as moments of singular freedom.

"I know the Internet has a great potential, but I must admit I don't know much about computers – it's synonymous to a way of life I long left behind. I leave that to my children — they can take care of it for me. To me, working with you is an excellent opportunity for people to get to know the extraordinary work artists all over the world are capable of making. It is an excellent way for an artisan to exhibit his work without the confinement of borders."