gifts for myself

Popularized in Sweden, Dala horses are a Christmas favorite worldwide because of their cheerful designs and bright colors. From the island of Bali, artisan Komang Sulaksana creates his own interpretation of the Swedish tradition, hand-painting each of these four horses with a unique character that brings cheer to the holidays.

Old Saint Nick is as festive as the Christmas star in a set of four ornaments from Bali. Wayan Cidra, from Bhakti Senang Hat, crafts each albesia wood ornament by hand and paints two in maroon and two in green. The set of four ornaments hangs from golden cords.

"I'm the youngest of five siblings and our parents are farmers in Gianyar. I never went to school because of my parent's financial limitations, and also because I got poliomyelitis when I was just a child and it left me with weakened knees. I wanted to help my parents in some way, so I have been crafting ornaments since I was 14 years old. I felt so proud to myself when I received my very first income. Although I'm not really happy with my physical condition, I'm happy doing ornaments and hopefully my products can make more people happy. My hobby is singing traditional Balinese songs. I'm married and we have a son and a daughter. My wife is the one who helps me in making these ornaments, which I hope makes people’s Christmas happier."

Old Saint Nick is as festive as the Christmas star in a set of four ornaments from Bali. Wayan Cidra, from Bhakti Senang Hat, crafts each albesia wood ornament by hand and paints them red. The set of four ornaments hangs from golden cords.

"I'm the youngest of five siblings and our parents are farmers in Gianyar. I never went to school because of my parent's financial limitations, and also because I got poliomyelitis when I was just a child and it left me with weakened knees. I wanted to help my parents in some way, so I have been crafting ornaments since I was 14 years old. I felt so proud to myself when I received my very first income. Although I'm not really happy with my physical condition, I'm happy doing ornaments and hopefully my products can make more people happy. My hobby is singing traditional Balinese songs. I'm married and we have a son and a daughter. My wife is the one who helps me in making these ornaments, which I hope makes people’s Christmas happier."