Feature
●In its many renditions, the Tree of Life is a tremendously popular and iconic image. It has a timeless elegance, fits into many decorative schemes, and is naturally appealing. It’s easy to love.
●The tree reflects natural lighting, color variation varies from medium to dark silver.
●Handmade from Recycled Steel Drum Oil Barrels (NO MACHINES USED).
●We offer a hand up, not a hand out to our artist partners in Haiti. Each sale of their metal sculptures represents a positive step toward a better life.
●Fall Festive Home Decorating, Holiday Decor, Affordable Round Tree
Description
Tree of Life
If there is one thing we like more than a beautiful, well-made sculpture, is a beautiful, well-made sculpture full of meaning. The Tree of Life is exactly that. Because of this, it has garnished so much popularity and is a timeless staple regardless of how trends or times change. We see it in homes, in yoga studios, in gardens, in restaurants. Where there is a wall, we have seen it! But what is the exact meaning of the Tree of Life?
Well, that really depends who you ask. The Tree of Life holds so much significance to those who cherish it, but it may differ person to person; however, in Haiti, the Tree of Life commonly represents the interconnectedness of everything in the universe. The roots dig deep and spread into the ground, while the branches reach up into the sky. It gets nourishments from the Earth and energy from the sun and moon. Even though we all spread out in different directions, just as branches do, we are all part of something bigger. We coexist peacefully and need of each other and the elements to grow. Most importantly, we are never alone!
It is no surprise that some of our most popular metal art pieces are Trees of Life!
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From Recycled Oil Barrels to High Quality Metal Art
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The Materials & PreparationOur metal art is made from recycled oil barrels. Laborers remove the ends of the drum and place them inside the remianing cylinder along with scrap paper and dried banana or sugar cane leaves. By igniting it, it removes all the paint and residue. They are left with a blank canvas to work on! |
The Art ProcessThe artist then takes over, chalking his intended design on the prepared metal. Then, with the use of simple hand tools, he cuts the form, and begins pounding and shaping out intricate decorative patterns. At times, we have also collaborated with our artists in order to bring both of our visions to reality. |
The End ProductIts hard to believe that the oil barrels that we see in the first image have been transformed to the various metal art sculptures that we have in our shop. The amount of work, time, and talent that goes into each item makes them intricately beautiful and unique. |
Fair Trade & Its Cactus
What is Fair Trade?
Fair Trade is the most recognized and trusted sustainability label in the world. By defintion, it is an arrangement designed to help producers in growing countries achieve sustainable and equitable trade relationships.
How does Its Cactus support Fair Trade?
We began working in Haiti over 21 years ago with the goal of fighting poverty through art. During this time, we have worked with over 120 artists, cultivating business relationships and friendships, all while being Fair Trade members. Our artists are respected as equal trading partners. Their culture and their craft are valued, honored, and their work is compensated 100% in an equitable manner.
How Can You Support Fair Trade?
- Shop Fair Trade
- Spread the Word
- Love Your Product? Leave a Review!
