love sculpture

[This is a single sculpture; photo showcases two angles]"'No War' stands for the human right to love within a world of peace and friendship," says the artist, "While historically and socially constructed ethnic and cultural identities further divide the collective, each human retains the right to choose which face they show to the world; one of love, or one of hate. There will be war if there is a conflict, but there will be peace if there is love.

"This world's human race is diverse," the artist continues. "I want to show that ethnic and cultural differences can coexist peacefully. If humans have love and good friendship, they can create a beautiful world."

Depicted on this sculpture are polar opposite faces, one that seeks peace, and another that desires war. Thailand's Somyot Sawasdee wishes to advance global peace, and to create a beautiful world for future generations. He strives to help advance that goal through the power of art.

Sawasdee crafted this one-of-a-kind sculpture from local recycled paper mixed with cement for rigidity. In a process perfected through years of experimentation, the artist intentionally supports efforts to "divert waste from landfills, to further societal cooperation."The artist explains (translated from Thai), the sculpture "holds the word 'NO WAR,' in which N = human; O = love; W = world; A = peace; R = friendship."

“This is my contribution to the World Peace Project, explains Peruvian artisan Julio Gallardo. “In it, I propose unity and love for all. I’ve created this with the intention of spreading a message of unconditional love for others, starting at home.

“In this retablo, I’ve illustrated a traditional family workshop here in Peru, where, in a participatory manner, each person elaborates a distinct message of love and affection,” explains the artist. “The love and peace possible within this family workshop serve as a metaphor, portraying the unity, strength and perseverance possible between humans – for that is our goal for a better coexistence in the world.”

“I love the type of work I do,” the artisan adds, “as it allows me to capture any scene, thought or idea within a wooden box, and delve deeply into the meaning with each detail. That is why I am so passionate about these creations called retablos, inspired by the place where I was born – my land, Peru, and its culture, people, streets, and faces.

This is a one-of-a-kind retablo altarpiece.