Carving out his lot in life

Carving out his lot in life

As one passes along Jl. Casablanca in South Jakarta, it is hard
not to notice the "sidewalk gallery" right in front of Menteng
Pulo cemetery, displaying an interesting collection of wood
carvings.

In various sizes and shapes, the collection belongs to
Yogyakartan native Subardjan Bawono, a former driver with no
artistic background or skills.

Relying on his creative touch, the man transforms a simple
chunk of wood into a unique piece of work that fetches good
prices in the hand of buyers.

With the help of his sons, unique wood carvings in the shapes
of elephants, tigers and komodo dragons are put outside every day
to grab the public's attention and earn them a living.

-- Text and photos by Jacky