Bird Sculpture in Caramel Calcite on Onyx Stand, "Sparrow of Creativity"

Novica sales account for most of Cesar's income. It enables him to provide for his family, educate his children, take care of his health and provide full-time employment for other artisans. He is very grateful that his workshop has grown with Novica and for the security it has brought to his life.

"I learned to carve stone from a friend. In turn, I have taught my son and many of my workers the art of stone carving. When one of my artisans leaves to start a workshop of their own, I feel great pride. It means that the stone art of Peru will live on. Stone carving records the history of Peru and the Andes. Even though we now use machinery to bring our hand drawings to life... the stories the stones tell and the motifs we incorporate have been with us since pre-Inca times."

Cesar's workshop is well-respected in his community. He is able to give full-time employment to his workers. He credits the steady income and recognition that Novica sales give him with the stability and determination that enable him to continue to grow his workshop.

Cesar believes that the best gift you can give to your children is an education. He dreams of his children becoming professionals. His two younger children are at the university. Cesar pays for their studies and their living expenses.

Cesar Gonzales has received 5 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $500 and the most recent for $2050. Proceeds were used to buy stones and other raw materials he needs to increase production.

Cesar is constantly teaching and employing younger workers who are eager to learn from a master craftsman. Today he gives work to people who are the sole support of their families.