'Communion in the Zenith' (2007)

Size: 27.6" W x 43.3" H Weight: 0.67lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. For artist Vidal Bedoya Altamirano, the forest is a magical place as the sun reaches its zenith. Leaves drift in the fiery atmosphere, gently kissing the air as they fall to earth. Trees with stylized canopies are absolutely still for an instant. "This is a land in communion with magical trees," the artist says. "In painting and art, I try to imitate that which is real, in others, the abstract or the sublime. But all try to elevate the soul, to know the spirit." Titled "Comunin en el cenit" in Spanish. Handmade by Vidal Bedoya Altamirano In the land of Peruvian artistry, Vidal Bedoya (Lima, 1964) is a rebel defeated by art and in so being, his themes are charged with a mysterious magnetism that is both attracting and yet confusing. Within his prolific work, one finds revolution and kindness in a symbiotic union, highlighting the beauty of his ancestral heritage. A graduate from the Escuela Nacional Superior de Bellas Artes in Lima, Vidal conceives creation and testimony as the fundamental duty of any artist. Even though he appears to be an old teenager, he is not a sentimental painter - truth and legend are the essence of the work of this rebellious angel. "I only paint. I work. I believe in what I do. Even as a child, I have always had a quiet predisposition for drawing and painting. I enjoyed observing without realizing I was feeding my vocation. I am inspired by ancestral Peruvian culture, I express it in my paintings without intellectualizing it. My art also depicts experiences from my social environment, human emotions, and for these I am inspired by the works of Oswaldo Guayasamin. "The process of my work is quite simple: I start with a rough draft or in front of the canvas. At times I'm not sure of what I want to paint. Each painting has its own birth and even a different process - paintings are enriched by our fears and doubts and our pain enlightens them. "As for my artistic trajectory, I have participated in individual exhibitions in Chile, Cuba and the United States as well as in my own country, where I've also participated in numerous collective exhibitions. I don't take part in contests, save for those when I was at school. The biggest challenge I've had to face in my life is to be dedicated to painting in a country such as ours where prejudice still exists concerning artistic creations - this at times has affected me, but then I understood it with a sense of service and the vocation of the artist. My art is open and reassures me that I have a great disposition for teaching, but first I must warn you - I am not the best there is. "As for the value of my art, to the margin of what is intrinsic, I

'Sounds of Peace'

Size: 10.6" W x 44.1" H Weight: 0.28lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. A mysterious personage appears in pacific shades of blue. Playing the Andean quena flute, he sings a song of peace. Fiery colors in the background represent the troubled world in this painting by Juan Carlos aaque. Titled "Sonidos de paz" in Spanish. Handmade by Juan Carlos aake Juan Carlos aake was born on April 6, 1971. He studied at the Jose Sabogal School of Drawing in Chiclayo, the Ignacio Merino Art School in Piura and at the National Museum of Printing in Buenos Aires, Argentina. aake's main inspiration is Peru's pre-Hispanic iconography, which for him means a constant search for his ancestral roots. "My goal is to proclaim an insubordinate art," exclaims aake. "Art without borders, honest and moved by an extravagant force that runs through my veins. Maybe it's the force of our lineage clamoring for love, reintegration and respect for our millenary past." Luis Ginocchio Feij, noted Peruvian art critic, wrote of aake, "This young artist's work is deeply rooted in our ancestral cultures. The colors he uses vivify a reality that makes us meditate. His paintings are characterized by their clarity, the harmonious use of color and vitality. The path aake is on will surely take him amongst our most noted artists. Lets open our eyes and our hearts." aake has presented his work in collective as well as in individual exhibitions in Peru and abroad, including Ecuador and Argentina. Some of his paintings are featured in private collections in Peru, Chile, Argentina, England, Italy and Spain.

'Grow Between the Stones' (2006)

Size: 35.4" W x 51.2" H Weight: 0.5lb Ships from NOVICA's Bali and Java office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Nature inspires Balinese artist Made Ardika to share his impressions through abstract images. Hot beneath the tropical sun, rocks cover the dry earth. But it is the plant life thrusting tenacious leaves between the stones that he exalts. "They are a symbol of people who are able to survive in this hard life," he explains. Handmade by Made Ardika Given the name of Made Ardika by his parents, the artist is better known to his friends as Petruk. Art has been part of his life since he was little when he loved to draw and take part in competitions. A childhood hobby has now become his professional career as a painter. "To support my painting hobby, I undertook formal studies at the SMSR secondary school of art and continued to the STSI art university. Together with several friends from two different universities, we established a painter group called Galang Kangin, which are Balinese words meaning 'bright in the east.' In relatively short time, Galang Kangin has become one of the better known painter groups in Bali and has participated in exhibitions in many different places. "Other than painting, when I was teenager I also learned how to make wood and stone carvings, to sing traditional Balinese songs, and I even sing in a band. However being a painter gives me a special satisfaction for myself. I love to travel and see beautiful scenery. I use my vision as camera; I keep the images in my mind, and later on interpret them with my paintbrush. "In 2003, I met a woman named Made Kurniati Andika, who is also a painter. That the same year we got married and we now have a handsome son. "I have a story to share. As I mentioned, since I was a little boy I've taken part in drawing competitions. One day in the competition, when the other children were still busy with their drawings, I finished mine very quickly and many people at that time considered it quite nice. But then a problem occurred when I had to write the title of the drawing and sign my name. At the time, I knew how to draw but still didn't know how to write." Ardida has exhibited his work throughout Indonesia.

'Beginning IV' (2005)

59.1 " W x 25.2 " H Weight: 0.50 kg -Oil on canvas -Arrives unframed -Signed by the artist -Unstretched Ships from NOVICA Office in India NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Cryptic symbols appear on a fiery background in a vital composition by Honey Pandey. Taking her inspiration from ancient art, she juxtaposes zigzags and spirals with purposeful tracks, eliciting a natural harmony from the seemingly random figures. "Before the invention of painting on canvas, people painted on rocks and walls. In tribal villages, people still sketch and draw outside their homes. I took my inspiration from them," the artist says. Handmade by Honey Pandey "Hi, my name is Honey Pandey and I was born October 20, 1977. My father was an army Major and was often posted in different stations, but since my mother was also working, I stayed with her in Delhi while my father traveled. I used to miss him when he was away, but now he is retired and running a small business. "My passion for art began when I was still a child. In school, I'd participate in competitions and often won. My teachers saw my talent and always encouraged me. I painted a lot with watercolors. Butterflies always fascinated me their rich hues are a thing of beauty. I always enjoyed playing with colors and being around them. My parents were not too happy seeing me so engrossed in painting but eventually, when they saw my creativity and talent, they encouraged me as well. In fact, my mother had an art teacher come to our house to teach me. It was so much fun. "After completing high school, I chose art college instead of a regular school. So I enrolled in Triveni Kala Sangam and have been associated with them since 1996. I have learned so much from this institute under the guidance of Mr. Rameshwar Broota. For the last two years I have concentrated on abstracts and want to continue my journey into the realm of abstract art." Pandey has exhibited her work in a number of Indian venues.

'Peace in His Hands'

Size: 10.2" W x 28.7" H Weight: 0.17lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. A dove is caged in this cool abstract by Juan Carlos aaque. The personage who holds it reveals a fiery countenance. "This character represents many rulers who hold the decision for peace in their hands. The blue tones symbolize the security needed to make such a decision in favor of humanity," the artist explains. Titled "La paz en sus manos" in Spanish. Handmade by Juan Carlos aake Juan Carlos aake was born on April 6, 1971. He studied at the Jose Sabogal School of Drawing in Chiclayo, the Ignacio Merino Art School in Piura and at the National Museum of Printing in Buenos Aires, Argentina. aake's main inspiration is Peru's pre-Hispanic iconography, which for him means a constant search for his ancestral roots. "My goal is to proclaim an insubordinate art," exclaims aake. "Art without borders, honest and moved by an extravagant force that runs through my veins. Maybe it's the force of our lineage clamoring for love, reintegration and respect for our millenary past." Luis Ginocchio Feij, noted Peruvian art critic, wrote of aake, "This young artist's work is deeply rooted in our ancestral cultures. The colors he uses vivify a reality that makes us meditate. His paintings are characterized by their clarity, the harmonious use of color and vitality. The path aake is on will surely take him amongst our most noted artists. Lets open our eyes and our hearts." aake has presented his work in collective as well as in individual exhibitions in Peru and abroad, including Ecuador and Argentina. Some of his paintings are featured in private collections in Peru, Chile, Argentina, England, Italy and Spain.

'Portrait of Woman with Stars' (2007)

Size: 33.5" W x 59.1" H Weight: 0.85lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. "This is the portrait of a woman of strong character, a mature woman," begins Mishelle Ramos as she explains her painting. "Her hair features strong colors and there are stars in her hair symbolizing her hopes for a future filled with light. Her eyes stare past the present. The message I want to convey is that despite the years and the wrinkles, we preserve the illusion of shining-through, of being beautiful, and of flying toward something better in another world." This painting is from Mishelle Ramos' 2007 "Portraits of Woman" series, which she explains as a series of paintings that explore what is inside every woman. "Every woman has different faces. Inside one woman there could be a girl, an adolescent woman, a hard woman, or a disillusioned woman. They are all expressions of the same woman," the Peruvian artist explains. Titled "Retrato de mujer con estrellas" in Spanish. Handmade by Mishelle Ramos Mishelle Ramos de los Santos is an acclaimed artist who has exhibited her work throughout Peru as well as in Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, Germany, Italy, and Venezuela. Born in 1966, Mishelle studied in Peru's Fine Arts School. She describes her family as being "very sensitive to the arts," while her mother used to restore classic works. She's been playing piano ever since she was nine years old. Painting had always been a part of her but wasn't her first choice to study professionally. She intended to study Ecology but didn't pass the entrance exam. Not one for giving up, she intended to present the exam again. While preparing, her parents suggested she also apply to the Fine Arts School, for they could recognize their daughter's talents. Mishelle realized her parents were right, and she could reach a comprise she could paint ecological themes. In 1986 she sold her very first painting and she was ecstatic, for it was well known that it was practically impossible for a buyer to be interested in the work of an art student. This made her proud and made her realize how painting was indeed her true calling. Mishelle's paintings stand out for their unique style, which is very personal and different to her fellow artists. During her studies, she was at constant odds with her teachers who demanded she follow more mainstream styles. She rebelled against this but in the end, she had to comply, only for as long as it took to graduate. Once out of school she felt an immense feeling of freedom, because she could finally paint what was in her heart, and in her unique style. Mishelle believes expression is an exercise while art is the artist's reflection; in this way, Mishelle describes her work as thoroughly expressive - rich

'Beginning' (diptych, 2004)

Each canvas (2): 29.9 " W x 29.9 " H Weight: 0.60 kg -Oil on canvas -Arrives unframed -Signed by the artist -Unstretched Ships from NOVICA Office in India NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Honey Pandey goes back in time to explore the origin of painting. Inspired by ancient art, she creates a work that covers two canvases with vivid abstract motifs. "Before the invention of painting on canvas, people painted on rocks and walls. In tribal villages, people still sketch and draw outside their homes. I took my inspiration from them," the artist says. Handmade by Honey Pandey "Hi, my name is Honey Pandey and I was born October 20, 1977. My father was an army Major and was often posted in different stations, but since my mother was also working, I stayed with her in Delhi while my father traveled. I used to miss him when he was away, but now he is retired and running a small business. "My passion for art began when I was still a child. In school, I'd participate in competitions and often won. My teachers saw my talent and always encouraged me. I painted a lot with watercolors. Butterflies always fascinated me their rich hues are a thing of beauty. I always enjoyed playing with colors and being around them. My parents were not too happy seeing me so engrossed in painting but eventually, when they saw my creativity and talent, they encouraged me as well. In fact, my mother had an art teacher come to our house to teach me. It was so much fun. "After completing high school, I chose art college instead of a regular school. So I enrolled in Triveni Kala Sangam and have been associated with them since 1996. I have learned so much from this institute under the guidance of Mr. Rameshwar Broota. For the last two years I have concentrated on abstracts and want to continue my journey into the realm of abstract art." Pandey has exhibited her work in a number of Indian venues.

'Couple' (2007)

Size: 31.1" W x 23.2" H Weight: 0.27lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. "An Andean couple is the main productive center of the family. They usually divide work and responsibilities under conditions of equality," explains Peruvian artist Edgardo Crovetto. "I wanted to include elements that are representative of the Andes, that's why I painted my abstract composition with a warm palette of red hues." Titled "Pareja" in Spanish. Handmade by Edgardo Crovetto "I was born on 26 April, 1939, and I'm a self-taught artist. I have dedicated my life to my work since I was 17 years of age. I have worked in Lima, Guatemala, Uruguay and Italy, and I've been fortunate to appreciate art in all of its dimensions, especially in Italy. "I have always had an artistic inclination, but I always lacked the time to take courses. Then, after battling cancer, I left my work following doctors' suggestions, which meant I finally had the time to paint. After experimenting several trials, I finally painted a composition that I enjoyed doing, and that made me proud. I understood I needed to perfect my skills, so I'm continuously making an effort to improve. Painting has brought me back to life and forces me to look inside myself. "My style of painting is an abstract pictorial representation featuring clean lines and usually warm colors. I've been fully dedicated to this art since 2006, but the passion has been with me ever since I can remember. "My motivation to paint comes from the belief that I can express in each piece of canvas feelings that evoke pleasure upon seeing my work. I am interested in conveying the happiness of art, a sense of pleasure, and a message. "I remember that when I first started, I had no idea about techniques or materials, and I made many mistakes. But I kept reading and learning and that's how I perfected my style and I constantly look to improve my skills. It gives me great pleasure to know others like my work. "The biggest challenge I have had to overcome was in Italy, when I was working there and I was diagnosed with cancer. I thought my life was ending. My children were small and my wife Gloria Crovetto a Novica featured artist gave me her full support to face this illness. I managed to beat it with her help, the doctors and by the grace of God. It was a difficult experience and a hard lesson in life. "To Novica customers I'd like to say that I hope you feel what I wish to transmit through my art. I hope you enjoy my paintings as much as I enjoyed making them."

Kandinsky - Upwards - Standard 20"x24" - Hand Painted Canvas Art

20" X 24" Framed Oil Painting On Canvas Framed Dimensions 26 1/8" X 30 1/8" Hand painted oil reproduction of a famous Kandinsky painting, Upwards. The original painting was created in 1929. Today it has been carefully recreated detail-by-detail, color-by-color to near perfection. Why settle for a print when you can add sophistication to your rooms with a beautiful fine gallery reproduction oil painting? Influenced by Cezanne , Matisse , and the rich, glowing colors of the Fauves, Kandinsky has been proclaimed a leading figure of abstract painting and one of the most influential abstract art pioneers. His works combine the qualities of Art Nouveau with the strong folk art of northern Russia. Why not grace your home with this reproduced masterpiece? It is sure to bring many admirers! 100% handmade oil painting on artist grade canvas Framed paintings arrive ready to hang on your wall 45-day Satisfaction Guaranteed

'Desire II'

Size: 16.1" W x 20.1" H Weight: 0.4lb Ships from NOVICA's India office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. An unseen hand slowly pours red wine into a crystal goblet. Its color flows across the features of a man whose eyes are riveted on the crimson nectar. "We are often tempted by evil things around us," artist Sunil Jaiswal muses. "Some fall to the temptation while others succeed in resisting it. It is only through one's own personal strength that we can accept or reject temptation in life." Handmade by Sunil Jaiswal "Hello, my name is Sunil Jaiswal. I was born in 1969 and brought up in the beautiful city of Delhi, known as the 'city of lovers.' My childhood was a fun-filled one with lots of colors. Ever since I was a young boy, I was always interested in painting. I would participate in competitions and win them. One worth mentioning is the 'On the Spot Competition on Mother and Child' organized by the Anuvart Bhavan. I won first prize and the trophy was presented to me by the former president of India. "Besides art, I was also very much interested in photography and took a six-month course in that field upon completion of my 12th standard. After that, I did a four-year diploma course in painting at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Institute of Art and Culture. I was so fascinated by the beauty of art that I couldn't deny the fact that I was in love with it. As I learned every stroke, each line, I was more and more attracted to the world of art. In 1993, after my four-year painting course, I continued this journey and received a BA degree in fine arts. Here I came in contact with a variety of art media and enjoyed every bit of it. I don't want to be bound by any particular theme or style and have tried my hand at almost everything connected with art, like wood sculpting, clay molding, metal, fiberglass, wrought iron, ceramics, etc. I did quite a bit of work in wrought iron and metal sculpting and got a good response. I love working on Ganesha themes and have done quite a lot of pieces on this deity. "My theme depends on my mood and keeps changing with time. Right now I am working on music meditation. Here I explore human involvement with music in any form. I want to portray the joy people derive from meditation. My wife is also an artist and she inspires me a lot. "I have done several shows in India, including Delhi, Bombay, Chandigarh, Lucknow and Jaipur, and it has been a wonderful experience for me. And it feels especially great to be associated with Novica."

'Three Arwanas'

Size: 39.4" W x 39.4" H Weight: 0.5lb Ships from NOVICA's Bali and Java office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Colorful dragon fish contrast against the black waters of their natural habitat in an original sisal painting by Mahmud. He is inspired by ancient Chinese beliefs claiming dragon fish are the bearers of good fortune. Mahmud uses acrylics to paint the arwanas, as they are known in Bali. Handmade by Mahmud Mahmud is a young painter from East Java who has lived in Bali for several years. Painting has been his passion since he was a child. "I moved to Bali to gather more experience," he says. "At first, life was really tough here. To be able to live and to buy painting materials, I had to sell soup and meatballs from a pushcart on the street, from morning until late evening. Sometimes I would earn enough money for the day, but other times I wouldn't. "To improve my life, I decided to devote even more attention to my painting. I began to paint and to sell my work in galleries. "Most of my paintings depict the arwana , or dragon fish. I am fascinated with this particular fish, because it is a symbol of prosperity. We believe the dragon fish will bring success to its owner. Hopefully, it will bring good luck for me!"

'Florists' (2007)

Size: 19.7" W x 35.4" H Weight: 0.3lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Snchez makes reference to the florists of the Peruvian highlands. Faces with shared features gaze at the viewer and seem to speak. Enveloped in sunny color, the women reach forward to proffer fresh cut flowers. Titled "Floristas" in Spanish. Handmade by Sanchez Isidro Snchez More was born in Catacaos-Piura in October of 1981. Trained in the Escuela de Bellas Artes, he describes his work as figurative expressionism. Snchez has worked as an artist since 1999. He says he strives to transmit the customs of Peru and its people through his work. "I would like to think that my paintings motivate people to visit my homeland. I find inspiration in my people, and in the beauty of women. My themes are expressionist, personal, and deal with our customs. I paint with total tranquility in the plenitude of my village, beneath shady locust trees with the pure air of the countryside. In this way, I paint with happiness. The drawing is the most important part for me, and then the colors are born of total spontaneity. "I thank the people I love most, like my parents, and God who has helped me so much."

'Port III'

Size: 15.8" W x 19.7" H Weight: 0.1lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Teodoro Reque explores the quality of sunlight on water in this quiet seascape. Radiant sails seem to shimmer as they move gently in the breeze. Impelled by a stiff sea breeze, colorful clouds race across the canvas. Titled "Puerto III" in Spanish. Handmade by Teodoro Reque Liza One of NOVICA's most popular artists, Teodoro Reque Liza's formation as a painter is the result of continuous practice of the art, observation of nature and personal reflection. His abstract themes are drawn from Andean inspiration and he recreates memories of ancient Peruvian cultures and their relationships to the present. The innovation of his art can be seen in the singular style of his compositions and the harmony that he achieves through his subtle running together of colors. "Ever since adolescence I've been drawn to art. However, it wasn't until 1990 that I dedicated myself entirely to painting, reaffirming, perhaps, the influence of an artistic family. I've oriented my work toward an abstract tendency, all the while conserving the cultural roots of my country. My artistic ability reaps me intimate satisfaction and fills within me a spiritual void, revitalizing me. "My work is methodical. Before beginning I make a preliminary sketch right on the canvas, changing the color scheme as the work progresses. The tones are my major concern, given that they are my language, and from there we can see serene skies that promise peace. No work is finished until it satisfies my spirit - I must find harmony, color and form. Sometimes even after I've already signed a painting I continue working on it. "I've participated in four individual exhibitions and about a hundred collective ones. I've participated in national contests and was one of the selected artists in the Fine Arts Biennial in 1996. "I enjoy showing my works through Novica because it is far reaching and offers a chance for my art to become known and to spread my country's culture. Thank you my friends around the world."

'Mythic Encounter' (2007)

Size: 35.4" W x 47.2" H Weight: 0.88lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Marked by a sense of weightlessness and the absence of time, this work evokes a sense of silent solitude and comforting serenity. Vidal Bedoya Altamirano depicts a glowing landscape of coca trees. This is a tribute to the leaf that has played a fundamental part in Andean life and ritual. The beautiful painting forms part of the series "Mythical Leaf." Titled "Encuentro mtico" in Spanish. Handmade by Vidal Bedoya Altamirano In the land of Peruvian artistry, Vidal Bedoya (Lima, 1964) is a rebel defeated by art and in so being, his themes are charged with a mysterious magnetism that is both attracting and yet confusing. Within his prolific work, one finds revolution and kindness in a symbiotic union, highlighting the beauty of his ancestral heritage. A graduate from the Escuela Nacional Superior de Bellas Artes in Lima, Vidal conceives creation and testimony as the fundamental duty of any artist. Even though he appears to be an old teenager, he is not a sentimental painter - truth and legend are the essence of the work of this rebellious angel. "I only paint. I work. I believe in what I do. Even as a child, I have always had a quiet predisposition for drawing and painting. I enjoyed observing without realizing I was feeding my vocation. I am inspired by ancestral Peruvian culture, I express it in my paintings without intellectualizing it. My art also depicts experiences from my social environment, human emotions, and for these I am inspired by the works of Oswaldo Guayasamin. "The process of my work is quite simple: I start with a rough draft or in front of the canvas. At times I'm not sure of what I want to paint. Each painting has its own birth and even a different process - paintings are enriched by our fears and doubts and our pain enlightens them. "As for my artistic trajectory, I have participated in individual exhibitions in Chile, Cuba and the United States as well as in my own country, where I've also participated in numerous collective exhibitions. I don't take part in contests, save for those when I was at school. The biggest challenge I've had to face in my life is to be dedicated to painting in a country such as ours where prejudice still exists concerning artistic creations - this at times has affected me, but then I understood it with a sense of service and the vocation of the artist. My art is open and reassures me that I have a great disposition for teaching, but first I must warn you - I am not the best there is. "As for the value of my art, to the margin of what is intrinsic, I believe in money when a person appreciates my work. I like free composition, arbitrary designs. Before being an arti

'Ancestral Tensions'

Size: 40.9" W x 13.4" H Weight: 0.32lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Bright primary hues dominate a black canvas. Arrows lead the eye in different directions, and all of them depart from a bright yellow rectangle. "This is a minimalist work with a diversity of shapes and symbols," artist Juan Carlos aaque explains. "The central image represents a golden pectoral worn by Moche rulers." Titled "Tensiones ancestrales" in Spanish. Handmade by Juan Carlos aake Juan Carlos aake was born on April 6, 1971. He studied at the Jose Sabogal School of Drawing in Chiclayo, the Ignacio Merino Art School in Piura and at the National Museum of Printing in Buenos Aires, Argentina. aake's main inspiration is Peru's pre-Hispanic iconography, which for him means a constant search for his ancestral roots. "My goal is to proclaim an insubordinate art," exclaims aake. "Art without borders, honest and moved by an extravagant force that runs through my veins. Maybe it's the force of our lineage clamoring for love, reintegration and respect for our millenary past." Luis Ginocchio Feij, noted Peruvian art critic, wrote of aake, "This young artist's work is deeply rooted in our ancestral cultures. The colors he uses vivify a reality that makes us meditate. His paintings are characterized by their clarity, the harmonious use of color and vitality. The path aake is on will surely take him amongst our most noted artists. Lets open our eyes and our hearts." aake has presented his work in collective as well as in individual exhibitions in Peru and abroad, including Ecuador and Argentina. Some of his paintings are featured in private collections in Peru, Chile, Argentina, England, Italy and Spain.

'Fragments'

Size: 47.2" W x 31.5" H Weight: 0.5lb Ships from NOVICA's Brazil office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. For artist Rose Doya, a jigsaw puzzle evokes unsolved mysteries. She uses a warm, subdued palette to highlight the textures of geometric shapes. Yet their meaning remains an enigma. Handmade by Rose Doya "I loved to draw when I was a child. I was always asking my parents to buy me coloring books, pencils and paintbrushes. I was always trying to copy and enlarge the images I saw in magazines or book illustrations. It was my greatest source of fun and pleasure. "Whether it was destiny or my parents' wishes, I went to university to study physiotherapy. It was my parents' dream to have a daughter working in the health sector. I put a lot of effort into my studies and I worked as a physiotherapist for eight years, until I realized I was carrying with me a sense of emptiness. I used to leave the hospital with an uncontrollable urge to get home and start gluing together my art materials so I could relax in body and mind. Soon I realized my hobby was consuming me more than my career. "I discovered the true value behind personal satisfaction. What gives me a sense of happiness in my life is to paint. "I talked to my husband, a systems analyst, and he supported me. We left our jobs and comfortable city lifestyle and moved to a calm farmhouse, faraway from the city's noise and stress. "Even though my family didn't quite approve of my decision, I am fully aware it was the best decision I have ever made in my life. The rhythm of our daily life transformed completely. My husband now grows mushrooms, and I'm completely dedicated to art, my true life's passion."

'Evolution' (2006)

Size: 36.6" W x 24.4" H Weight: 0.4lb Ships from NOVICA's Bali and Java office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Made Surita paints a mystical work in a modern expression of Balinese tradition. "To show respect to god, Bali's Hindu people make offerings," he explains. "They sacrifice a certain animal in a ritual ceremony and offer it to god. The fish and duck in this painting are two of these animals and are believed to have a better future in the next life. For example, in the next reincarnation, the fish or the duck could come back as humans because of good things they have done in a previous life. The one who carries out the sacrifice is believed to have prosperity in life, symbolized here as a bird carrying rice in its beak, and will get a clear path to heaven when he dies. I represent them as two human figures in the upper right." Handmade by Made Surita "I was born July 27, 1951 in the village of Payangan. My father, a Hindu official, specialized in painting wayang (puppet) figures. In 1965, after finishing primary school, I started to draw zealously, picturing nature and people with cult functions. "In 1968 I enrolled at the Sekolah Seni Rupa Indonesia (School of Fine Arts Indonesia, or SMSR) in Denpasar. After two years there, I was able to finance my study through the paintings I was selling. During this period, the artist Nyoman Darsana, also from Payangan, helped me master batik techniques. "The years between 1971 and 1988 represented a period of doubt for me, a quest for my own soul. From time to time I sought comfort in other occupations and professions, concentrating more on batik, or working as a journalist for various newspapers. In 1988, I eventually discovered my own personal painting style based on Balinese culture. "A style of my own? I discovered it by combining the different existing wayang styles the 'Kamasan Klungkung' style and the 'Young Artist' style as it had been developed and taught by the Dutch painter Arie Smit. "Elements of both styles were subordinated to my own subject matter the culture of Bali or daily life as it is determined by religion. In my most recent paintings, I link up even more stylistic elements than before. The compositions refer to the 'Young Artist' painting style, the figures and trees to 'Wayang Kulit' (shadow puppet), the colors to 'Wayang Kamasan' and my technical finish to the traditional Ubud style." Since 1970, Surita's work has been widely exhibited throughout Indonesia as well as in galleries in Singapore (1993, 1994, 1996, 1998, 1999), Australia's Darwin Museum (1996) and the Darwin Parliament House (1997).

'Characters with Bird' (2007)

Size: 35.8" W x 35.8" H Weight: 0.56lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Peruvian artist Carlos Len transforms his reflections on life into an admirable work of art. "Communal life is important, that's what we were created for," states Len as he proceeds to explain this acrylic on canvas. "In each painting I make, I try to uncover people-concepts, that is, characters with strong and solid internal and external traits. These are Gregorian characters who love life and are consistent with their inner life. They are like idols from a distant era that have come to remind us of our essence." Titled "Personajes con ave" in Spanish. Handmade by Carlos Leon "I was born 24 March, 1967 in the Otuzco province of Libertad, in Peru. My father was a much-loved policeman, probably that's why people in my community loved me too. My mother was a homemaker and I also have a sister we grew up in a happy family life. "I studied elementary school in my village, and continued my studies in Trujillo, which included three years in the Music Conservatory and then at the Fine Arts School, where I graduated in 1991. "I've loved to paint ever since I was a kid. Back then I used to draw but one day my uncle Manuel painted a bird on my notebook and it was as if it was coming to life before my own eyes! I don't recall any other time when I could have considered painting that was as important or significant as that wonderful day. I owe it to my uncle Manuel that many birds have come forth from my hands, and no doubt many more will come. "I've always been prone to observe nature and play with it. When it rained I was happy to get drenched, and the sun to me was a like a huge orange that was ready to be picked at 6 a.m. There's no doubt in my mind that that's how it all began, and I've been painting ever since. "I decided to follow the path of art because it has always been what allows me to see the sun as a great big orange and hail as a bunch of friends with whom I can play. When I studied art I learnt to develop my personalized style with the adequate knowledge. "As a child I also enjoyed making ceramic items, musical instruments from reed, kites, and plan roads for my toy cars. As a child I tried it all and as an adult, I continue to do so, I paint, I write poetry, I read, and then I paint again. "Art is the constant in my life: it allows me to go back to my childhood and search my roots, as well as others'. I am moved by a desire to help myself as well as others. I want to transmit fulfillment through simplicity the simplicity of fulfillment. "My work is like an attempt to transmit Peruvian history, the stories of people who lived holding unto the flames of ideals and love for this great American contine

'Blue Paradise'

Size: 42.9" W x 27.2" H Weight: 0.51lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. A beach scene takes shape amid abstract forms, and parasols block the intensity of the sun. Despite a palette based on blue, Simen Gonzles communicates a sensation of intense heat. In the foreground, a flower seems to transform into a woman. "I seek beauty in each work, like this swimmer adorned with flowers," the artist confides. Titled "Paraso azul" in Spanish. Handmade by Simeon Gonzales "I'm Simen Gonzles Ayquipa and I was born in Cuzco on February 18, 1973. My parents are artisans who work in leather and other materials. When I was only nine, my father passed away, which complicated the financial situation at home. We had to struggle to get ahead and I found consolation, comfort, aspiration and love in painting. I'd say that paint and colors flow through my veins in torrents. That same year, I entered an art contest and won first prize. That's when I decided to major in fine art in Lima and, because I was awarded first place in the city of Cuzco, I received a two-year scholarship. After finishing my schooling in Cuzco, I moved to Lima to attend the Escuela de Bellas Artes and what I learned there defined the profile of my work. "I obtained my first oil paints when I was ten and I began painting my sheets, curtains, the tablecloths and even my jeans. Anything and everything could become the basis for my work. At first, our economic situation led me to use a wide variety of natural materials such as different kinds of earth, oxides, plants and whatever organic compound I could to obtain distinct and surprising colors and textures. They say 'there's nothing so bad that good can't come of it' and this has proven true for me, introducing me to a new conception of art and the use of natural and recyclable materials. "When I was only ten, I was already a founding member, active in the Cuzco Association of Artists and Contemporary Art (ADAPACC). I belonged to this association until 1991. On June 20, 1996, I was named an honorary member in recognition of my work. "At the same time, I decided to sell my paintings on one of the corners of Cuzco's Plaza Mayor. My works depicted beautiful Peruvian landscapes in watercolor and I paid close attention to my surroundings. This let me capture life here with all its fascinating color. My first themes were traditional fairs, markets and especially Inca archeology such as ceramics and textiles. Andean music also figures predominantly in my paintings and has become my leitmotif. "Later, in Lima, I set up with the ASAPVIR artist association on a corner of the Parque Central de Miraflores, just as I had in Cuzco. They also let me use a workshop where I could work and live. By thi

'Red Column' (2005)

Size: 8.9" W x 59.8" H Weight: 0.35lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. A narrow canvas in fiery red hosts mystical abstract elements. "The columns are a representation of the human being, columns of stone," artist Lucy Angulo Lafosse explains. "They are in different states of transformation, the same as each one of us." Titled "Columna roja" in Spanish. Handmade by Lucy Angulo "I'm Lucy Angulo Lafosse and I was born in Lima on April 19, 1947. I was a premature baby, born at only seven months, and no one thought I would live. I spent my first years with my brothers and sisters in Huanuco in a setting of nature and of sophistication, an interesting combination for the beginning of my dreams. I've been mischievous and creative from childhood. "I first attended a religious primary school, and later studied public relations and marketing. For a while, I worked in this field in TV. In 1979, I enrolled in the Escuela Nacional Autnoma de Bellas Arte in Lima. I received a master's degree from Mexico's Universidad Nacional Autnoma in 1982, then went to Germany to study in the Berlin School of Art's free workshops. "When I decided to study art, my family opposed it. They thought I was going to lead a bohemian life and they are very conservative. I got married but, as time went by, I felt as though I died a little every day because I couldn't paint. When I applied to the School of Fine Arts, I didn't tell anyone until I was accepted. At that time I was expecting a baby but that didn't discourage me. It was a challenge, but I graduated. "I spent the next seven years studying with my child on my back, as it were, but I was happy. From that moment on, I never stopped painting. I graduated in 1980 and I'd do it all again because my effort was worth it. I feel alive every single day. Art awakens my spirit and keeps it awake. "I was a student at the Escuela Nacional Superior Autnoma de Lima during its most conflictive period. The school was taken over four times, the academic year was restructured, communication was cut off and, during these years of political unrest, our generation emerged strong. We carried out many collective projects. We created art guilds and associations. I belong to the Class of 1980 and, on my own, I researched Andean culture for more than 15 years and was able to achieve that the world now accepts the term 'Andean Culture.' Today it is considered as one of the few 'Mother Cultures' like that of Egypt, China, etc. "I always knew that my life had to have meaning. From the time I was a little girl, I had this dream. Because of the love I feel for our life and culture, I think the best way I can serve is through art. I feel life and love. I feel as though I am close to the c

'Intensity'

Size: 23.6" W x 31.1" H Weight: 0.25lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Totally abstract, random shapes suggest the shining gold treasures discovered in the tombs of Moche royalty. Emerging from a background of deep red shadows, their graceful curves capture the light. Chero manipulates multiple visual planes with a radiant palette. Titled "Intensidad" in Spanish. Handmade by Chero Chero was born in Piura on May 16, 1951. At the age of 14, he discovered his love for art when he decided to enter an art contest for children of Petro Peru workers. The theme was petroleum as it related to the nation, and Chero won a prize. "I decided then that I wanted to go to the capital and study painting in the School of Fine Arts," he recalls. "And I did, for two years. I had no more money to continue. The rest of my formation came through my own experience and practice. "I plan each painting first. I seek the abstract, the pre-Hispanic, not the figurative, because this style arrived here with the Spaniards. It is our past that inspires me. Blues and earth tones are my favorites. "My studio is here at home, and my wife and son are also artists. We enjoy painting together and critique one another's work. I like to get up early and get started around 6 a.m. And I enclose myself in the world of art until late afternoon."

'Timeless Torrent' (2007)

Size: 39.4" W x 43.3" H Weight: 0.58lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Winter envelopes the land with a gray cloak while leafless trees stand tall and patient. Time seems to stand still in the Andean highlands, were it not for the continuous murmur of a flowing waterfall. "Nature remains alive," whispers Ral Cardenas. He paints with oils, delivering assured yet bold brushstrokes to create a comforting sense of serenity. Titled "Torrente sin tiempo" in Spanish. Handmade by Raul Cardenas Born April 9, 1944 in Ayacucho, Vctor Ral Crdenas is a graduate of the prestigious Escuela Nacional de Bellas Artes del Per. Generations of artists have studied there, and Crdenas is an illustrious product of this Peruvian institution. Crdenas has not abandoned the figurative and Andean presence of what we might call the "thesis in his canvases." But his magnificent academic formation permits him to easily discriminate with sure, firm strokes that are also light. The faces, the corporal expression of his characters, even the gesture of the brush to establish the landscape, the shadows, the apus (earth spirits) like guiding hills, the sky and the way he handles color are hallmarks of Crdenas' style. With the peculiar playfulness he imposes on some of the elements in the foreground, the viewer suddenly recognizes the artist in the presence of doves or hats. Crdenas excels at this development of the abstract from the figurative, in other words, working toward the antithesis, where he sometimes remains. Thus he stands in the three dialectic moments sustained throughout the evolution of art in the 20th century thesis, antithesis and synthesis. Crdenas has shown himself to be a serious professional painter. He has worked at his art since 1963. "I'd describe my work as contemporary with Andean roots," he says. "I try to transmit the communion of Andean man with nature. My vocation for art, my people and our landscapes provide my motivation." To his Novica friends, he says, "I'm glad you are interested in the works and culture of artists from other latitudes." Ral Crdenas has shown his work widely over the past four decades, throughout Peru as well as in Italy, Holland, Switzerland, Spain and the U.S.

'Red Warrior'

Size: 13.4" W x 17.3" H Weight: 0.14lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. A half circle in brilliant crimson forms a mask. At the same time, it repeats the shape of the tumi, a ceremonial blade. Juan Carlos aaque depicts a warrior from the ancient Moche culture. "Red symbolizes strength, vigor and skill in combat," he explains. Titled "Guerrero rojo" in Spanish. Handmade by Juan Carlos aake Juan Carlos aake was born on April 6, 1971. He studied at the Jose Sabogal School of Drawing in Chiclayo, the Ignacio Merino Art School in Piura and at the National Museum of Printing in Buenos Aires, Argentina. aake's main inspiration is Peru's pre-Hispanic iconography, which for him means a constant search for his ancestral roots. "My goal is to proclaim an insubordinate art," exclaims aake. "Art without borders, honest and moved by an extravagant force that runs through my veins. Maybe it's the force of our lineage clamoring for love, reintegration and respect for our millenary past." Luis Ginocchio Feij, noted Peruvian art critic, wrote of aake, "This young artist's work is deeply rooted in our ancestral cultures. The colors he uses vivify a reality that makes us meditate. His paintings are characterized by their clarity, the harmonious use of color and vitality. The path aake is on will surely take him amongst our most noted artists. Lets open our eyes and our hearts." aake has presented his work in collective as well as in individual exhibitions in Peru and abroad, including Ecuador and Argentina. Some of his paintings are featured in private collections in Peru, Chile, Argentina, England, Italy and Spain.

'Surreal Composition with Newspapers'

Size: 30.3" W x 22.4" H Weight: 0.14lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. "My intention was to show how human beings try to break through the obstacles that won't allow them to develop, one of them being the media," confides Peruvian artist Carlos Morales. "This painting symbolizes the struggle it takes to realize our destiny." Morales paints with detailed clarity, allowing for the intensity of emotion to come through this watercolor on Arches paper. He masterfully gets the paper to fold and crease as the man's body emerges from the shadows and into the light. Titled "Composicion surrealista con periodicos" in Spanish. Handmade by Carlos Morales Peruvian artist Carlos Morales was born on December 31, 1955. From a very young age, his inclination towards the arts was extremely apparent, and in 1974 he was accepted to a center of art studies. In 1979, he was accepted to the prestigious School of Fine Arts, where he graduated in 1984. A versatile artist, Morales also took courses in tooled leather, embossed mate gourds and carpentry. Morales defines his work as something unique to him. He is inspired by a desire to represent the immortal essence of life. He intends to transmit the experience of being human and the concomitant psychological tendencies. Morales admits his biggest challenges have been first as a father, second moving to Lima from the Andean highlands and thirdly, to be able to exhibit his work abroad, especially in the United States. Morales prefers to paint with acrylics or oils, pencils, brushes or palette knife.To Novica clients he wishes to say "What I paint is unique and original. A lot of hard work goes into each of my paintings and I do them with a lot of love." Morales has exhibited his work collectively and individually since 1979 in Peru as well as in Bolivia and the United States including Texas, Washington and New York. Among the awards bestowed upon Morales, the following are particularly significant to the artist: 1985 Honorable Mention in the Peruvian National Watercolor Contest sponsored by INDELCA 1988 1st Place in the I Expo of Oeschle Art, Lima 1988 1st Place in the XVIII National Watercolor Contest sponsored by the North American Peruvian Cultural Institute (prize included the opportunity to exhibit in San Antonio, Texas). In addition, Morales is an accomplished weaver.

'Landscape in Profound Blue'

Size: 31.5" W x 35.4" H Weight: 0.64lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Myriad shades of blue promise mystery and beauty in this stunning abstract. By Simen Gonzles, it depicts a cryptic landscape. "Many elements remain in our memories when we travel. They become a part of an abstract harmony of surreal forms, forms that we build," he says. "The most intense silence, recollection is living memory. We seek the simple in a complicated world." Titled "Paisaje en azul profundo" in Spanish. Handmade by Simeon Gonzales "I'm Simen Gonzles Ayquipa and I was born in Cuzco on February 18, 1973. My parents are artisans who work in leather and other materials. When I was only nine, my father passed away, which complicated the financial situation at home. We had to struggle to get ahead and I found consolation, comfort, aspiration and love in painting. I'd say that paint and colors flow through my veins in torrents. That same year, I entered an art contest and won first prize. That's when I decided to major in fine art in Lima and, because I was awarded first place in the city of Cuzco, I received a two-year scholarship. After finishing my schooling in Cuzco, I moved to Lima to attend the Escuela de Bellas Artes and what I learned there defined the profile of my work. "I obtained my first oil paints when I was ten and I began painting my sheets, curtains, the tablecloths and even my jeans. Anything and everything could become the basis for my work. At first, our economic situation led me to use a wide variety of natural materials such as different kinds of earth, oxides, plants and whatever organic compound I could to obtain distinct and surprising colors and textures. They say 'there's nothing so bad that good can't come of it' and this has proven true for me, introducing me to a new conception of art and the use of natural and recyclable materials. "When I was only ten, I was already a founding member, active in the Cuzco Association of Artists and Contemporary Art (ADAPACC). I belonged to this association until 1991. On June 20, 1996, I was named an honorary member in recognition of my work. "At the same time, I decided to sell my paintings on one of the corners of Cuzco's Plaza Mayor. My works depicted beautiful Peruvian landscapes in watercolor and I paid close attention to my surroundings. This let me capture life here with all its fascinating color. My first themes were traditional fairs, markets and especially Inca archeology such as ceramics and textiles. Andean music also figures predominantly in my paintings and has become my leitmotif. "Later, in Lima, I set up with the ASAPVIR artist association on a corner of the Parque Central de Miraflores, just as I had in Cuzco. They also let

'Encounter for Peace' (2007)

Size: 43.3" W x 43.3" H Weight: 0.93lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Swathed in white, three women come together in silence. Suggesting bandages, their tunics become white flags that call for peace in the world. Sorrow fills the women's dark eyes, for war has ravaged their land and their souls. Yet artist Juan Carlos aake expresses hope through this elegant composition. Titled "Encuentro por la paz" in Spanish. Handmade by Juan Carlos aake Juan Carlos aake was born on April 6, 1971. He studied at the Jose Sabogal School of Drawing in Chiclayo, the Ignacio Merino Art School in Piura and at the National Museum of Printing in Buenos Aires, Argentina. aake's main inspiration is Peru's pre-Hispanic iconography, which for him means a constant search for his ancestral roots. "My goal is to proclaim an insubordinate art," exclaims aake. "Art without borders, honest and moved by an extravagant force that runs through my veins. Maybe it's the force of our lineage clamoring for love, reintegration and respect for our millenary past." Luis Ginocchio Feij, noted Peruvian art critic, wrote of aake, "This young artist's work is deeply rooted in our ancestral cultures. The colors he uses vivify a reality that makes us meditate. His paintings are characterized by their clarity, the harmonious use of color and vitality. The path aake is on will surely take him amongst our most noted artists. Lets open our eyes and our hearts." aake has presented his work in collective as well as in individual exhibitions in Peru and abroad, including Ecuador and Argentina. Some of his paintings are featured in private collections in Peru, Chile, Argentina, England, Italy and Spain.

'Studio' (2003)

Size: 33.3" W x 26.0" H Weight: 0.46lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Jars and bottles line a shelf, while a kitchen chair and armchair sit side by side in the foreground. "I wanted to paint something simple, like the place where I live and work," Andean artist Cecilia Lostaunau confides. "This is a part of my studio, including the two chairs that live with me. They are a part of me, of my art, of my life and work." Gentle applications of soft colors give a dreamlike effect to this painting. Titled "Estudio" in Spanish. Handmade by Cecilia Lostaunau Cecilia Lostaunau began her career in art at Lima's prestigious Escuela Nacional de Bellas Artes, and then continued studying painting at the Byam Shaw School of Art and Chelsea School of Art in London during the 1980s. Since her return to Peru, she has lived in several cities, exhibiting her work from time to time and exploring her artistry through a variety of techniques, ranging from oils to pastels to watercolor. "My work is abstract expressionist," Cecelia says. "In reality, my art is part figuration, and, in a broader sense, the practical representation of some British painters who have been grouped in the so-called 'London school.' Their work has its roots in realism but is characterized by a great freedom of form that could be interpreted as pure expressionistic intention. Here all this hierarchical order of front plane and background, the positive and negative, the important and unimportant, the near and distant has been broken. This perception of life fascinates me; I believe it can best be described as 'individual conscience.' "There is another reason for managing media. It makes expressivity discover its strongest accent. This is through the decision to resolve volume as a plastic mass, with a visual weight constructed through a demarcation of lines, of lights and shadows, and especially by color. "Color, for me, is a detonating factor in images. To think in terms of color, there must be imagination. Without imagination, one can never become a good colorist. I think it is necessary to copy nature with imagination colors must be thought out, dreamed of, and imagined. "Through my work, I try more than anything to transmit my feelings, motivated always by my own life. I hope you appreciate and enjoy my work as much as I do."

'Stellar Ritual Offering' (2006)

Delivery by December 25th guaranteed to Continental US with STANDARD shipping if order received by 11/25/07. Delivery by December 25th guaranteed with EXPRESS shipping to Continental US if order received by 11/25/07. Size: 31.5" W x 23.6" H Weight: 0.4lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Verdant energy fills this canvas by artist Lucy Angulo Lafosse. "The ritual of the jungle pays homage to the sacred places with the presence of the coca leaf, a sacred plant of stellar character," she says. "These are rituals that have been respected for thousands of years, paying tribute to the animist spirits of the ancestors. These are the archetypical manifestations of humankind when faced with the unknown. Titled "Ofrenda Ritual Estelar" in Spanish. Handmade by Lucy Angulo "I'm Lucy Angulo Lafosse and I was born in Lima on April 19, 1947. I was a premature baby, born at only seven months, and no one thought I would live. I spent my first years with my brothers and sisters in Huanuco in a setting of nature and of sophistication, an interesting combination for the beginning of my dreams. I've been mischievous and creative from childhood. "I first attended a religious primary school, and later studied public relations and marketing. For a while, I worked in this field in TV. In 1979, I enrolled in the Escuela Nacional Autnoma de Bellas Arte in Lima. I received a master's degree from Mexico's Universidad Nacional Autnoma in 1982, then went to Germany to study in the Berlin School of Art's free workshops. "When I decided to study art, my family opposed it. They thought I was going to lead a bohemian life and they are very conservative. I got married but, as time went by, I felt as though I died a little every day because I couldn't paint. When I applied to the School of Fine Arts, I didn't tell anyone until I was accepted. At that time I was expecting a baby but that didn't discourage me. It was a challenge, but I graduated. "I spent the next seven years studying with my child on my back, as it were, but I was happy. From that moment on, I never stopped painting. I graduated in 1980 and I'd do it all again because my effort was worth it. I feel alive every single day. Art awakens my spirit and keeps it awake. "I was a student at the Escuela Nacional Superior Autnoma de Lima during its most conflictive period. The school was taken over four times, the academic year was restructured, communication was cut off and, during these years of political unrest, our generation emerged strong. We carried out many collective projects. We created art guilds and associations. I belong to the Class of 1980 and, on my own, I researched Andean culture for more than 15 years and was able to achieve that the world no

'Blue Column' (2005)

Size: 8.9" W x 59.8" H Weight: 0.33lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Abstract shapes in warm colors cover a narrow column of blue. "I explore the Golden Rule and the principles of construction of a habitat in the human being," artist Lucy Angulo Lafosse explains. "Remember the foundation of the columns as a spiritual support." Titled "Columna azul" in Spanish. Handmade by Lucy Angulo "I'm Lucy Angulo Lafosse and I was born in Lima on April 19, 1947. I was a premature baby, born at only seven months, and no one thought I would live. I spent my first years with my brothers and sisters in Huanuco in a setting of nature and of sophistication, an interesting combination for the beginning of my dreams. I've been mischievous and creative from childhood. "I first attended a religious primary school, and later studied public relations and marketing. For a while, I worked in this field in TV. In 1979, I enrolled in the Escuela Nacional Autnoma de Bellas Arte in Lima. I received a master's degree from Mexico's Universidad Nacional Autnoma in 1982, then went to Germany to study in the Berlin School of Art's free workshops. "When I decided to study art, my family opposed it. They thought I was going to lead a bohemian life and they are very conservative. I got married but, as time went by, I felt as though I died a little every day because I couldn't paint. When I applied to the School of Fine Arts, I didn't tell anyone until I was accepted. At that time I was expecting a baby but that didn't discourage me. It was a challenge, but I graduated. "I spent the next seven years studying with my child on my back, as it were, but I was happy. From that moment on, I never stopped painting. I graduated in 1980 and I'd do it all again because my effort was worth it. I feel alive every single day. Art awakens my spirit and keeps it awake. "I was a student at the Escuela Nacional Superior Autnoma de Lima during its most conflictive period. The school was taken over four times, the academic year was restructured, communication was cut off and, during these years of political unrest, our generation emerged strong. We carried out many collective projects. We created art guilds and associations. I belong to the Class of 1980 and, on my own, I researched Andean culture for more than 15 years and was able to achieve that the world now accepts the term 'Andean Culture.' Today it is considered as one of the few 'Mother Cultures' like that of Egypt, China, etc. "I always knew that my life had to have meaning. From the time I was a little girl, I had this dream. Because of the love I feel for our life and culture, I think the best way I can serve is through art. I feel life and love. I feel as though I am close

'Rest at the Beach'

Size: 42.9" W x 27.2" H Weight: 0.49lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Human bodies men and women comprise a harmonious landscape by Simen Gonzles. He depicts a blue beach where sea reflects the sky and the sand is transformed into a woman's torso. "The mermaids are loose," he says. "They convert my summer into a story of beauty." Titled "Descanso en la playa" in Spanish. Handmade by Simeon Gonzales "I'm Simen Gonzles Ayquipa and I was born in Cuzco on February 18, 1973. My parents are artisans who work in leather and other materials. When I was only nine, my father passed away, which complicated the financial situation at home. We had to struggle to get ahead and I found consolation, comfort, aspiration and love in painting. I'd say that paint and colors flow through my veins in torrents. That same year, I entered an art contest and won first prize. That's when I decided to major in fine art in Lima and, because I was awarded first place in the city of Cuzco, I received a two-year scholarship. After finishing my schooling in Cuzco, I moved to Lima to attend the Escuela de Bellas Artes and what I learned there defined the profile of my work. "I obtained my first oil paints when I was ten and I began painting my sheets, curtains, the tablecloths and even my jeans. Anything and everything could become the basis for my work. At first, our economic situation led me to use a wide variety of natural materials such as different kinds of earth, oxides, plants and whatever organic compound I could to obtain distinct and surprising colors and textures. They say 'there's nothing so bad that good can't come of it' and this has proven true for me, introducing me to a new conception of art and the use of natural and recyclable materials. "When I was only ten, I was already a founding member, active in the Cuzco Association of Artists and Contemporary Art (ADAPACC). I belonged to this association until 1991. On June 20, 1996, I was named an honorary member in recognition of my work. "At the same time, I decided to sell my paintings on one of the corners of Cuzco's Plaza Mayor. My works depicted beautiful Peruvian landscapes in watercolor and I paid close attention to my surroundings. This let me capture life here with all its fascinating color. My first themes were traditional fairs, markets and especially Inca archeology such as ceramics and textiles. Andean music also figures predominantly in my paintings and has become my leitmotif. "Later, in Lima, I set up with the ASAPVIR artist association on a corner of the Parque Central de Miraflores, just as I had in Cuzco. They also let me use a workshop where I could work and live. By this time, I was working in very large format with oils, acryli

'Black Serenity'

Size: 15.8" W x 23.6" H x 0.7" D Weight: 0.56lb Ships from NOVICA's Thailand office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Stretched NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. A smile of pleasant peace spreads across Buddha's face as his spirit is energized through contemplation and meditation. Thotsapon transforms Buddha into his eternal muse as his dedicates his art to his teachings. Painting with acrylics, Thotsapon depicts the fire of enlightenment on Buddha's forehead. Handmade by Thotsapon "My name is Thotsapon Srimuangmoon. I was born on February 25, 1979 and I come from a family of farmers. Because I am an only child and my parents' income was decent, I was able to graduate with a degree in fine arts. I was originally going to study agriculture but eventually chose otherwise. The reason was that too many people studied that field and competition would be tough. In fact, the main reason was that I had also been drawn to arts along the way. I am very lucky, for my parents accepted me studying what I liked most. When they saw me creating artworks and wanting to be an artist, they didn't stop me but rather gave me their support. I love them so much. "My parents worked hard so I lived with my grandparents until high school. I got interested in art during junior high school and even participated in art contests several times. After high school, I passed an exam at the Chiang Mai Rajabhat University School of Liberal Arts, and studied four years until I graduated with a bachelor's degree in fine art. I have been drawing tourists' portraits to earn a living ever since. I also have been creating artwork I like on the side. I use various techniques to achieve different styles. My favorite subject is Buddha. I particularly emphasize his smile, like Thailand, the land of the smile. I also draw Thai hill tribes because I think they have a unique cultural and traditional identity. I like their clothing. When I depict them in my artwork, I somehow feel I am a part of promoting our country and our Thai identity, an identity made of several cultures, traditions and people. "Through Novica, collectors around the world should be able to connect with my work quickly and easily. It's like making the world borderless. I have a message for you I always do good things for my world and am thought of as a good person. Life is so short that I think goodness should bring you happiness. If you happen to like my artistic works, no matter whether you purchase some or not, I hope they will also bring you some happiness and serenity."

'Turquoise Glow'

Size: 15.9" W x 23.8" H x 0.7" D Weight: 0.7lb Ships from NOVICA's Thailand office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Stretched NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Buddha awakens from his peaceful meditation, his presence inspiring devotion in his followers. Thotsapon dedicates his art to the Enlightened One as he paints his portrait in turquoise undertones symbolizing communication and creativity through the Visuddha throat chakra. Handmade by Thotsapon "My name is Thotsapon Srimuangmoon. I was born on February 25, 1979 and I come from a family of farmers. Because I am an only child and my parents' income was decent, I was able to graduate with a degree in fine arts. I was originally going to study agriculture but eventually chose otherwise. The reason was that too many people studied that field and competition would be tough. In fact, the main reason was that I had also been drawn to arts along the way. I am very lucky, for my parents accepted me studying what I liked most. When they saw me creating artworks and wanting to be an artist, they didn't stop me but rather gave me their support. I love them so much. "My parents worked hard so I lived with my grandparents until high school. I got interested in art during junior high school and even participated in art contests several times. After high school, I passed an exam at the Chiang Mai Rajabhat University School of Liberal Arts, and studied four years until I graduated with a bachelor's degree in fine art. I have been drawing tourists' portraits to earn a living ever since. I also have been creating artwork I like on the side. I use various techniques to achieve different styles. My favorite subject is Buddha. I particularly emphasize his smile, like Thailand, the land of the smile. I also draw Thai hill tribes because I think they have a unique cultural and traditional identity. I like their clothing. When I depict them in my artwork, I somehow feel I am a part of promoting our country and our Thai identity, an identity made of several cultures, traditions and people. "Through Novica, collectors around the world should be able to connect with my work quickly and easily. It's like making the world borderless. I have a message for you I always do good things for my world and am thought of as a good person. Life is so short that I think goodness should bring you happiness. If you happen to like my artistic works, no matter whether you purchase some or not, I hope they will also bring you some happiness and serenity."

'Buddha Relief'

Size: 19.7" W x 39.4" H Weight: 0.4lb Ships from NOVICA's Bali and Java office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Made Pasek Kusuma Wijaya paints the solemn image of Buddha standing with his right hand making the Vitaka Mudra ("Debate") gesture as he imparts his teachings. On his left hand he holds his robes. Kusuma Wijaya's portrait of the Great Teacher is inspired by the stone sculptures at Borobudur temple, believed to have been built where there once was a river by Sanmaratungga, in the 8th century. Facing eastwards, the temple features 1426 panels that narrate Buddha's life story and deeds. Handmade by Made Pasek Kusuma Wijaya "I was born on October 25, 1976, in a cool, green farming village in Bali. I am the second of three children from a well-to-do farming family. My brothers and I all went to the Art School of Denpasar. I started to paint even before entering preschool, but became serious only in primary school. During that time I was involved in school competitions and then entered the Fine Art School and by then was already selling my works. "As an art student I learned and experimented with many styles and techniques. My work has continually evolved. I started by painting Mahabharata epics, then transitioned to Naturalism, and eventually found my own genuine style of Surreal Naturalism. "I consider my style self-taught. My inspiration comes from my own imagination, which I then paint so as to make it possible for others to see. Themes I like to explore are meditation and contemplation. My medium of choice is oil on canvas. "My dream is that through my paintings Balinese culture and art will become recognized internationally. "I have exhibited at many venues including in a group exhibition called 'Sekolah Seni Indonesia' at Yogyakarta the year of 1999. I really enjoy working with the Novica team, because of the possibility of selling and promoting outside of Indonesia. And I hope that through Novica my work can become renowned internationally. "Here is a story about something that once happened to me. I had brought a painting to a store in Sukawati and the owner said that the painting was no good. I knew he wanted to have it, so he tried to intimidate me in front of a lot of people because he wanted it at a cheap price. So I took the painting back home with me."

'Amazon Family' (2007)

Size: 23.2" W x 31.1" H Weight: 0.33lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. "I wanted to highlight how important is the family in Amazonian cultures. To them, the basic family unit is a source of sustenance and continuity through time," confides Edgardo Crovetto. He paints with a palette of intense oil colors that is underscored by lush greens. Titled "Familia amaznica" in Spanish. Handmade by Edgardo Crovetto "I was born on 26 April, 1939, and I'm a self-taught artist. I have dedicated my life to my work since I was 17 years of age. I have worked in Lima, Guatemala, Uruguay and Italy, and I've been fortunate to appreciate art in all of its dimensions, especially in Italy. "I have always had an artistic inclination, but I always lacked the time to take courses. Then, after battling cancer, I left my work following doctors' suggestions, which meant I finally had the time to paint. After experimenting several trials, I finally painted a composition that I enjoyed doing, and that made me proud. I understood I needed to perfect my skills, so I'm continuously making an effort to improve. Painting has brought me back to life and forces me to look inside myself. "My style of painting is an abstract pictorial representation featuring clean lines and usually warm colors. I've been fully dedicated to this art since 2006, but the passion has been with me ever since I can remember. "My motivation to paint comes from the belief that I can express in each piece of canvas feelings that evoke pleasure upon seeing my work. I am interested in conveying the happiness of art, a sense of pleasure, and a message. "I remember that when I first started, I had no idea about techniques or materials, and I made many mistakes. But I kept reading and learning and that's how I perfected my style and I constantly look to improve my skills. It gives me great pleasure to know others like my work. "The biggest challenge I have had to overcome was in Italy, when I was working there and I was diagnosed with cancer. I thought my life was ending. My children were small and my wife Gloria Crovetto a Novica featured artist gave me her full support to face this illness. I managed to beat it with her help, the doctors and by the grace of God. It was a difficult experience and a hard lesson in life. "To Novica customers I'd like to say that I hope you feel what I wish to transmit through my art. I hope you enjoy my paintings as much as I enjoyed making them."

'Boats'

Size: 39.4" W x 29.5" H Weight: 0.45lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. The day is bright with the sun's light while turquoise waters softly flap against the rocky shore. Boats are safely tied as they patiently wait for the rising tide. "My sister, who lives in Spain, sent me some pictures of fishing villages that she visited. They inspired me to paint this composition," confides Peruvian artist Azorin as he presents this oil on canvas. Titled "Botes" in Spanish. Handmade by Azorin Mario Martn Themme Canrub, whose artistic name is 'Azorin,' was born October 10, 1969. A self-taught artist, he worked in Jaime Rsan Valencia's restoration workshop and collaborated in the restoration of the church or convent of Saint Francis of Assisi. He describes his work as figurative. He has dedicated himself to this art from the age of 15 and is still motivated by the search for beauty, trying to transmit it with the same feelings and emotions. Azorin's greatest challenge has been to make a way for himself in the fine arts. "My paintings are aged and feature a crackled finish, a very special touch for me that I hope you will value as much as I do," he says. Azorin has exhibited his work in a number of Peruvian venues.

'Presences in the Sunset' (2007)

Size: 15.8" W x 47.2" H Weight: 0.65lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Dancing in crimson light, leaves drift in the fiery air. Present in the forest, two trees cross their trunks as though embracing one another. Vidal Bedoya Altamirano works in radiant oil on canvas, enhanced by an application of beeswax. Titled "Presencias al atardecer" in Spanish. Handmade by Vidal Bedoya Altamirano In the land of Peruvian artistry, Vidal Bedoya (Lima, 1964) is a rebel defeated by art and in so being, his themes are charged with a mysterious magnetism that is both attracting and yet confusing. Within his prolific work, one finds revolution and kindness in a symbiotic union, highlighting the beauty of his ancestral heritage. A graduate from the Escuela Nacional Superior de Bellas Artes in Lima, Vidal conceives creation and testimony as the fundamental duty of any artist. Even though he appears to be an old teenager, he is not a sentimental painter - truth and legend are the essence of the work of this rebellious angel. "I only paint. I work. I believe in what I do. Even as a child, I have always had a quiet predisposition for drawing and painting. I enjoyed observing without realizing I was feeding my vocation. I am inspired by ancestral Peruvian culture, I express it in my paintings without intellectualizing it. My art also depicts experiences from my social environment, human emotions, and for these I am inspired by the works of Oswaldo Guayasamin. "The process of my work is quite simple: I start with a rough draft or in front of the canvas. At times I'm not sure of what I want to paint. Each painting has its own birth and even a different process - paintings are enriched by our fears and doubts and our pain enlightens them. "As for my artistic trajectory, I have participated in individual exhibitions in Chile, Cuba and the United States as well as in my own country, where I've also participated in numerous collective exhibitions. I don't take part in contests, save for those when I was at school. The biggest challenge I've had to face in my life is to be dedicated to painting in a country such as ours where prejudice still exists concerning artistic creations - this at times has affected me, but then I understood it with a sense of service and the vocation of the artist. My art is open and reassures me that I have a great disposition for teaching, but first I must warn you - I am not the best there is. "As for the value of my art, to the margin of what is intrinsic, I believe in money when a person appreciates my work. I like free composition, arbitrary designs. Before being an artist, I am an admirer of paintings. I don't believe in easy praise. I am always questioning myself: I am my ow

'Andean Family at Dawn' (2007)

Size: 46.8" W x 35.0" H Weight: 0.46lb Ships from NOVICA's Andes office. - Requires special handling -- allow an extra 14 days for delivery - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Unstretched NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Wishing to convey the force of the family bond, Edgardo Crovetto paints with a warm palette of colors. "In the Andes, families wake up at the crack of dawn to set off on their daily chores. They always seem so united, so I wanted to convey the love and peace and that reigns within them," confides the Peruvian artist. Titled "Familia andina al amanecer" in Spanish. Handmade by Edgardo Crovetto "I was born on 26 April, 1939, and I'm a self-taught artist. I have dedicated my life to my work since I was 17 years of age. I have worked in Lima, Guatemala, Uruguay and Italy, and I've been fortunate to appreciate art in all of its dimensions, especially in Italy. "I have always had an artistic inclination, but I always lacked the time to take courses. Then, after battling cancer, I left my work following doctors' suggestions, which meant I finally had the time to paint. After experimenting several trials, I finally painted a composition that I enjoyed doing, and that made me proud. I understood I needed to perfect my skills, so I'm continuously making an effort to improve. Painting has brought me back to life and forces me to look inside myself. "My style of painting is an abstract pictorial representation featuring clean lines and usually warm colors. I've been fully dedicated to this art since 2006, but the passion has been with me ever since I can remember. "My motivation to paint comes from the belief that I can express in each piece of canvas feelings that evoke pleasure upon seeing my work. I am interested in conveying the happiness of art, a sense of pleasure, and a message. "I remember that when I first started, I had no idea about techniques or materials, and I made many mistakes. But I kept reading and learning and that's how I perfected my style and I constantly look to improve my skills. It gives me great pleasure to know others like my work. "The biggest challenge I have had to overcome was in Italy, when I was working there and I was diagnosed with cancer. I thought my life was ending. My children were small and my wife Gloria Crovetto a Novica featured artist gave me her full support to face this illness. I managed to beat it with her help, the doctors and by the grace of God. It was a difficult experience and a hard lesson in life. "To Novica customers I'd like to say that I hope you feel what I wish to transmit through my art. I hope you enjoy my paintings as much as I enjoyed making them."

'Roads'

Size: 23.6" W x 19.7" H x 0.8" D Weight: 0.66lb Ships from NOVICA's Brazil office. - Arrives unframed - Signed by the artist - Stretched NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. A rectilinear grid covers this painting, converting it into a sort of puzzle. Yet Kika Sevn brings harmony to the assemblage with the themes of nature always present in her work. "On the road of life, every hour suffers change and transformation. Each p