Sculpture boot made in solid Jacaranda from reuse
Approximate size: 15cm length x 10cm height x 8cm width
Origin: Brazil
History: Ditinho Joana was born in Bairro do Quilombo, in São Bento do Sapucaí (SP), and after working for many years as a farmer, he began his career as a sculptor at the age of 29, in 1974.
The discovery of his gift came from a dead root, which stirred his imagination. In it, Ditinho saw the shape of various animals, and then arose the desire to carve wood to give life to the figures that inhabited his imagination.
His mother, however, prevented the transformation of that piece of wood, as she claimed that in this way the piece could become whatever the imagination wanted. And that was the big impetus to start creating his sculptures.
His most emblematic piece has a precious meaning: “the boot represents the journey of life. Up and down. I walked quickly and slowly. I got tired and rested. I saddened and rejoiced, and so I always walked. Today I am worn out and full of marks, but it was definitely worth it”
His mother, though humble, has always been a great supporter of his artwork, and she is portrayed in many of his pieces. Ditinho Joana's main characteristic is to record with great sensitivity a representative portion of the Brazilian people: the rural community, of which he has always been a part. This is the explanation for depicting their figures with big feet.
His first exhibition was in 1979, in São Paulo, and in that same year he was evaluated by Pietro Maria Bardi at MASP, gaining a space to show his work.
Today he still continues to sculpt with his three children, masterfully portraying the people of the countryside.
 
 Handmade Wooden | Wood Carved | Cedar Wood | Jacaranda Wood Art