Sylvanus A. Agbolo

"I am wood carver. My name is Sylvanus Agbolo and I was born in Togo to a Togolese mother and Ghanaian father. My family is full of artisans ? painters, musicians and wood carvers. I am an honest, humble and valiant person. <br><br> "When I was young, I loved to draw and came up with interesting sketches. I became interested in carving when I saw how images could be carved out of ordinary wood. <br><br> "Initially, I wanted to be a Catholic priest and enrolled in a seminary. My supervisor saw the way I could draw beautiful images. He suggested I enroll at a Catholic training center. Because of my talent, I was quick to learn skills and could carve all the images I had previously sketched. <br><br> "Although I did not go back to my initial dream of becoming a priest, I still carved for the churches in Ghana, Togo and other African countries. I have been carving since 1987. I've taught several people and I want to impact other people positively, especially young people. <br><br> "Aside from depicting themes of my Catholic faith, I love the action and the movement of animals. This has made me carve lots of different animal shapes in different poses. <br><br> "I was fortunate to team up with some carvers who were willing to help me make use of the talent and skill I had acquired. People who appreciate my work have been a great source of encouragement to continue this craft. <br><br> "I use ebony and African rosewood for my carvings. These woods are not very easy to work with but the outcome is beautiful and I am well compensated for the hard work. I am inspired by Jesus Christ, the saints and animals. I dream of one day opening a big workshop to train people."