The Haitian method of creating sculptures originated over 6o years ago and has changed very little in that time. Outside each workshop are stacked 55 gallon drums, waiting to be prepared. Apprentice artists and laborers cut off the tops and bottoms of the drums, fill them with straw and dry banana leaves, and then light them to burn out residues and strengthen the metal. When cooled, the drums are slit down the sides, pried apart, pounded flat with mallets, and vigorously sanded. At this point the artist takes over, chalking his intended design onto the metal. Using a hammer and chisel and other simple tools, the artist undertakes the intricate work of cutting, beading and detailing each piece. When he is finally satisfied with the results, he pounds his signature onto the sculpture and seals it up with a protective finish.This recycled metal sculpture has a protective coating. If your piece is displayed outdoors, however, it will wear off over time. To keep this sculpture looking the same as the day you bought it, take five minutes once a year to apply a clear spray-on enamel coating. It's a snap.Hanging your art is easy once you know how. Choose a point where the design element is joined or notched and use a nail to hang it on the wall. Use a second and a third nail (if necessary) within other design elements to straighten and secure the piece. A word of caution: Don't place a nail in an eye or mouth. A viewer's eye will go straight there and straight to the nail. You want the nails to "disappear" into the sculpture. (And they will!)
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