Javanese Handcrafted Becak Taxi Sculpture, "Jogjakarta Becak Taxi"

"Hello, I'm Andri Martias, born on October 23, 1973 in Jogjakarta, a city with a rich cultural legacy. Here you'll find great historic buildings, from ancient temples and palaces to colonial Dutch fortresses. My wife Diana Dewi is a Novica featured artisan who specializes in wooden batik.

"My father was an entrepreneur, he had a book business. He taught me a lot about entrepreneurship while my mom taught me morals, spirituality and religion. Unfortunately in 1980 they decided to divorce, which really made me sad. But they both always supported us as children and encouraged us to be tough and strong when facing life's many difficulties.

"My father's death made think about life and I became a loner. I liked to travel to places where I could find peace and quiet, like in the mountains, beaches, lakes or farms. During that time I felt that the people I met there understood me better than people in the city.

"Finally I figured out that no matter how big is our problem, or how great is our happiness, they will eventually pass. Nothing lasts forever. Since then I married Diana and we have three daughters.

"I've been interested in metal handcrafts since I was in college, when a friend asked me to help their silver and brass workshop in Kota Gede. I was amazed and really inspired by the artisans' spirit and also the products they made. I learned from them and experimented with the techniques at home. I cannot remember how many times I failed when attempting to make a product for the first time. Failure and difficulties are our best teachers."

"Now I can make any product by myself, however I work with the help of 12 artisans. They make brass products with techniques taught by their ancestors. I prefer to work with brass and wood with the help of such tools as hammers, emery wheels, and lathes.

"We specialize in a variety of items, but we had a hard time marketing our products. Then I tried participating in many exhibitions, and thanks be to God I met many people there who really appreciated our products.

"By joining Novica I hope our sales will increase as people worldwide get to know my products."