Starting with discarded wooden shutters and a photo, he carves their likeness in relief into the wood leaving a border that serves as a frame.
The finished work is extraordinary, unlike anything I've ever seen. His display is sophisticated with halogen lights shining down from the ceiling, the shadows accentuate the detail of the relief. Some are subsequently painted and some left natural.
"We began our tour of the Historic core of Trinidad by walking to a nearby Biblíoteca, library. This photo was of the bookshelf near where I was standing. "There we met a young Santera who discussed the impact and influence of Santería, as well as other African religions in modern Cuba. [Santeria is an odd fusion of Christianity and many other voodoo-like religions coming from Africa. They observe many of the Catholic traditions and holy days, but also believe in reincarnation.] "In the past days we have learned that [our guide] Janet is an Iyawó, an aspiring Santera and is undergoing a year-long initiation. Male followers are known as Santeros. The high priesthood is reserved for men. "Perhaps the most interesting assertion of the lecture was that Santería is the dominant religion in Cuba with approximately 70% of the population practicing. "Santeria is also practiced in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Panama, Colombia, and in some parts of the US." - Bob Totten
