These small crosses are handmade by Haitian artist Jean Claude Soulouque. Small crosses are available in one of four patterns. Metal art pieces have been coated by the artist with a gloss varnish. Haitian steel drum sculptures are fabulous both indoors and out
The center of Haitian metal arts is the village of Croix-des-Bouquets, where the hammers banging out the sculptures provides constant music. Beyond Borders has been working with and nurturing Haitian metal artists in Croix-des-Bouquets for fifteen years. Most importantly, Beyond Borders sees real economic improvement and bettered lives through the creation and sharing of Haiti's beautiful art.
The artisans start with designs inspired by nature and culture. From cardboard patterns, they trace their design with chalk on the flattened metal from torn-down oil drums. (Many goods are shipped to Haiti in 55-gallon steel oil drums, ao there is a ready supply of discarded drums for the artisans.) With chisels and hammers, they carefully cut and decorate the metal by hand. Each piece is shaped and smoothed, then the artists boldly and proudly chisel their name on to the metal sculpture.
Caring for your handmade Haitian art:
Indoor Care: When a piece becomes scratched or worn, you can apply a light spray of a clear varnish made for metal, in either a gloss or satin finish. You should see the scratches disappear immediately. If you have some rust and you want to remove it, first sand with fine sandpaper and then apply the spray clear enamel.
Outdoor Care: Pieces displayed in the outdoor elements will generally not remain glossy and over time will take on a flat patina…and they will eventually rust. Rust is not ugly, but will corrode the piece. To deter the corrosion, thoroughly spray it with WD-40® penetrating oil…and do not wipe the spray. You will likely need to reapply once a year.
