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Oka Pastika and Ketut Mustika

We are saddened to say that Ketut Mustika recently passed away in an accident. His son I Putu Gede Oka Pastika, pictured above, continues the family tradition of carving. This is his father's story.

"I am a wood-carver from Bali and my name is Ketut Mustika. I was born in Sukawati village, Bali, on December 20, 1960. I started learning wood carving in 1968 when I was just an elementary student. I began carving seriously when I opened my art studio in 1980. I learned the basics of carving from my father, as well as from senior artists who taught me a lot about design, material, and different techniques.

"Local Balinese art and culture is deeply related with the everyday practices and customs that have lived on from generation to generation since ancient times. The stories of Ramayana and Mahabharata that are performed in shows and depicted in the architecture of temples and palaces also inspire us a lot.

"Some of the works are in the form of frames, masks, wood panels, etc. The material is obtained from local wood and also from Java or other islands in Indonesia. The different types I use are sono, acacia, lingua, ebony, teakwood, and coconut wood.

"I have completed about a thousand works and now I work with ten craftsmen and artists. As part of art education, I teach some students who are working with my brothers and myself. I am also currently teaching some underprivileged people in South Sulawesi and Maluku. Best regards to all Novica customers around the world."