Jesus Soliz

"Through it all, my desire to become a renowned artisan with my own venture sustained my enthusiasm over the years until I was finally able to make a little workshop at home."

"I'm from Huaraz province and I moved to Lima after primary school out of necessity, but also moved by desire to make something of myself. I went through some very tough times, but thanks to the Lord and to my friends and neighbors I was able to overcome most of them.

"I started helping out at a workshop where they specialized in wood and leather furniture, and I learned a lot from the artisans by asking questions and observing them – such was my desire to make something of myself.

"A few years later I started buying my own tools with a vision of opening my own workshop. I crafted trunks little by little and whenever possible, which I sold on the streets. It was difficult to start on my own without the necessary funds.

"Through it all, my desire to become a renowned artisan with my own venture sustained my enthusiasm over the years until I was finally able to make a little workshop at home.

"I work with cedar and tornillo woods, natural leather and any accessory that I might include in my designs. I work on my own though sometimes my son helps out me when he is not studying.

"Inca and Colonial art inspire my own designs, and I sell my work at different shops and fairs. My main concern is that clients may appreciate the top-quality of my products."