Ketut Sandi
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About this Artist
The artistry of I Ketut Sandi has been featured in numerous periodicals and on Oxygen TV. He is also featured in Keepers of the Arts, a beautiful hardcover book available through Novica."Every time I think about my childhood, I remember that what I really wanted to do was what I am doing now. But because times were hard, I tried to learn how to do other things, like painting and normal statue carving – all to be able to make ends meet. In the end, however, what finally worked for me was to make my chess tables. It is always our dreams and our belief in life that give us the best results, no matter how difficult the dream or how sore our feet get during the journey.
"I started to learn how to carve in 1968 and began my full-time apprenticeship in 1981. I studied under a master carver who taught me how to be more creative, even with ordinary figures. His creativity sparked my own; it was then that I had the idea to create chess sets, not only in the Western style, but also in a style that reflected Balinese culture.
"I tried to sell my chess tables at art fairs, but couldn't make enough money to support my family. So I tried to sell them on my own, walking up and down the streets of nearby villages. After a while of hard times and sore feet, I was introduced to Novica. I was very happy because the people at Novica were appreciative of my ideas. Soon, I was able to take care of my family, send my children to school, and focus on making even better quality carvings.
"I have now spent 17 years of my life crafting chess sets, and finally consider my efforts a success. My wife, Wayan Putri, and 15 helpers now work with me to create these sets. We all learn together and work together happily, and continue to invent new designs."
Dear Ketut Sandi, it was such a pleasure to meet you and your lovely wife. I will always treasure our day together - the photos of you two smiling and laughing together serve as wonderful keepsakes of an unforgettable time! I continue to purchase your exquisite chess sets as house-warming gifts for friends...what more beautiful and interactive art could exist? ;) Best wishes, Catherine
California
Thank you very much for the beautiful carved jewelry box. It is lovely on my teak dresser. Best wishes to you and your family.
Los Angeles Area, CA, USA
I have just received my Rama chess set and it is absolutely GORGEOUS! The details are amazing and the woods are great. The packaging was first-grade and it arrived in perfect shape. I will be back for more and so will my friends! Thank you!!! Sylvain in Canada
Sylvain
Until now, I've admired Mr. Sandi's beautiful carving only on-line. Finally I dared to buy a wood relief panel of distant volcanoes viewed through an hibiscus. When the panel arrived today, I was curious, of course, if it would be as spectacular as the on-line picture indicated. Yes, it most certainly is. It is exquisite. My wife and son shared my delight. What a divinely inspired power of vision and portrayal, you have, Mr. Sandi. We thank you, from the heart, for "Mountain Hibiscus."
Jacksonville, Illinois, USA
I purchased the fighting tigers chess set. It just came today - and it is absolutely lovely! The carving is extremely well done and both the board and the chessmen are quite beautiful. It is a wonderful piece! And it was packed so very carefully.
Birmingham, Alabama, USA
Today I received my "Paradise" jewelry box. I can't believe how lovely it is; it's even more beautiful than the photograph. Ketut Sandi is a talented artist, and I highly recommend his work to anyone contemplating a purchase.
Sarah S.
Detroit, MI
I recently purchased the Wood relief panel, 'Giraffes in the Forest' It arrived very quickly and was packed with great care to avoid damage during transit. The item itself is absolutely delightful and reflects the skills of a very talented artist. Many thanks
ANNE B
UK
We purchased the wood chess set, 'Anantaboga Dragon,' as a gift for a very special friend. We trusted that it would look as beautiful in person as it did on the website. And our trust was rewarded. The detail work was superb, the wood was beautiful and the piece was exactly as described and portrayed. Thank you so much for allowing us to express our friendship with such beauty and artistry.
Beth B.
CA, U.S.A.
Dear Ketut Sandi, Yesterday I received the chess set I had ordered as a present for my sister. The artistry and the craftsmanship is outstanding. Both my sister and I are amazed at the fine detail work that went into creating this set -- intricately carved pieces are so delicately featured and contain so much character. The chess board itself is a masterpiece of carefully fitted pieces, smoothed and finished to perfection. It far exceeded our expectations! You also packaged everything beautifully and with great care. We thank you, and thank you again. Warmest regards, Rena D.
Rena D.
Minneapolis, MN, USA
the box you carved for me with the deer is beautful. I keep my pins in it, thank you so much, I love it. Marilyn
Marilyn L S
Stow, Ohio U.S.A
I purchased Lion's Head a while back and for some reason had never posted a review. It is a beautiful, finely carved wooden box that is perfect for storing sacred, precious items. Not only that, but the box is a true work of art. Its craftmanship is superb, and the quality of the wood is incredible. I really love it and it's been one of my favorite purchases from Novica. I would highly recommend Ketut Sandi's work to others, too.
Ashley R
California
Man oh man!! I was so excited to recieve the Flowers Chess set from Ketut Sandi. The craftsman ship of the pieces and the board itself are amazing. I enjoy not just playing but looking at each uniquely detailed piece. You guys are nuts!!
Kobie N
Washington DC, USA
We recently purchased the "Fighting Tigers" chess set and we are extremely impressed by the workmanship of the artist, Ketut Sandi, his detail in each piece is incredible. Thank you.
Robin & Matthew H
Port St. Lucie/FL/USA
I bought one of Ketut Sandi's chess sets for my husband's Christmas present last year. He has expressed a desire to collect especially artful chess sets, and Sandi's set is the first of his new collection. We love playing with it or just looking at it--it is a unique, functional, and beautiful piece of art.
Carrie C
USA
I bought the "classic" chess set as a gift for my fiance. We were both amazed by the intricate work. We had never seen anything like it before. We will enjoy it for years to come. Thank you!
Melissa K
Washington DC/USA
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