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Jan and Maria Jose

Jan and Maria José opened their own workshop in 2008 guided by a dream to craft furniture and decorative items that are simple and of good taste. They design and carve products with high quality woods and with their own style.

"I was born in West Germany during Cold War era, and my father was in the army," Jan tells us. "I spent most of my childhood in Turingua and during that time I developed a passion for woodcarving. I even used to make toys for my sisters and friends! I studied wood construction at the Lyceum and then at 18 I did my obligatory military service. I got a civilian post, so most of my work was restoring the parish house of a 15th century church. This experience helped me get a job at a restoration company where I could also work on modern designs.

"I was expected to do three years' apprenticeship as I was deemed too young to graduate so I came to Guatemala to work with underprivileged children and youngsters. That's how I met Maria José, who was born in Alta Verapaz.

"Maria José and I got married and we're such a great team we also decided to start the workshop together: Both of us work together on the designs, I craft the pieces, and she is in charge of the administrative aspects.

"From the time I first arrived in Guatemala I have been fascinated by the diversity of fine woods that can be found in here, and how easy it is to work with them. Since Maria José actually studied culinary arts, the first pieces we designed were more kitchen and décor oriented.

"I would describe myself as quiet and patient man, whereas Maria Jose is extrovert and has a free spirit. Our designs express the passion that we have for art and for what we do, which is inspired by nature and the beauty of wood. We work with traditional techniques which includes the materials and style we use for the joinery, the natural finish and the respect for the wood's grain.

"The first items we made were the kitchen furniture for our home, simple and functional, and a mortar and pestle which Maria José helped design thinking about what any good chef needs.

"Aside from our workshop, we also direct a foundation that helps over 500 children, which we are very proud to be involved with. It is fills us with such positive energy to see how the children evolve and their achievements.

"We share our art with these children, and now we're are happy to share it with the world through Novica. Enjoy our hand crafted products, they are made with love and dedication, hard work and always inspired by our culture. We're certain you'll have in your hands a unique product of a 100-percent handcrafted essence."