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Ayu Murti

"My name is Ayu Murti. I was born in 1976, the fourth of five children in a village that has fostered the art of wood carving for many years. I come from a family of farmers. I started to learn woodcarving from my uncle when I was still in elementary school. I learned the various techniques, and never got paid until I could do sanding and finishing in the right way. I was so happy when I get paid for the first time and used the money to help my parents support our family.

"In 1992, when I was in high school, my classes started at 1 o'clock. So in the morning I went to an art market near my home to sell the crafts and statues I'd made. Nature and daily life are inspirational to me, as well as my own cultural history.

"I started my own workshop in 2003 and worked with several woodcarvers in my village. The next year I married Nyoman Sudiana, a wood carver from another village.

"I enjoy working with Novica because my work can reach people outside Bali and I feel respected as an artist."