Handmade Haitian Decor, Momma Fish with Babies, Eco-Friendly Folk Art 34x11in

Artist Profile- Etienne Wilson

“Nine out of my family of ten people are artists,” says Etienne Wilson. “And I am one of the nine. I was born in 1986 and by 1995, I was working in this occupation of metal sculpture, burning out the barrels and flattening them with my hammer. I got my first order in 2003.” Now creating beautiful works where butterflies flitter and dragonflies buzz in dreamy circles, he is in his element, his brilliant smile a testament to the joy of creative expression.

For a time, Etienne worked in construction to make ends meet. However, two respected artists in Croix-des-Bouquets convinced him that his future lay in metal sculpture. “They said that my opportunity was here as an artist. The village of Croix-des-Bouquets is the mother town. It was a difficult decision to commit to this art, but thanks to Casey Riddell, I know that this work will be seen and known around the world."

This metal sculpture is meant for display indoors or out, but if you choose to display yours outside, be aware that the protective, weather-proof coating will wear off over time. To keep your sculpture looking just like it did the day you bought it, take five minutes once a year to apply a spray-on clear enamel coating.

A few nails and a hammer are all you'll need to hang your sculpture. Look for a place where the design is joined or notched and put the first nail there. Use a second and possibly a third nail, if the piece is large, in other joined or notched design elements within the sculpture to straighten and secure it to the wall. The nails will "disappear" with the piece. Simple as that.

Fair trade isn't just a good idea - its the way we do business.

We offer a hand up, not a hand out to our artist partners in Haiti. Each sale of their metal sculptures represents a positive step toward a better life.

The center of Haitian metal sculpture is the village of Croix-des-Bouquets, where the clanging sound of hammers striking chisels is a constant music. To begin, the artist chalks his design onto the metal. Chisels, dies and a large hammer are used to cut and shape the piece, giving it form and texture. When the highly intricate and physically demanding work is complete and the artist is satisfied with his work, he signs his name boldly with a small chisel and applies a clear, weather-proof coating. The result is a wonderful, fair trade piece of handcrafted art.