Handcrafted Coconut Shell Kalimba Thumb Piano from Bali - Gecko Melody

Artisan Organization: Trisna Dewi

Country: Bali and Java

"I was born in Bali in 1983. I'm married and have two daughters. My hometown is known for preserving its traditional culture, arts, temples and a lot of beautiful natural scenery.

"Ever since I was a little girl, I've enjoyed Bali's traditional dancing, and these dances are usually performed to traditional music. I became interested in many types of traditional musical instruments.

"When I was 20, I began working with a neighbor. My father taught me to carve masks, but there are many interesting artistic sculptures and music instruments I find fascinating.

"There have been some bad periods during my journey as an artisan. People disliked my new creations or weren't interested in them. But this didn't discourage me — in fact, it motivated me to create something new and learn what people really liked. Never give up or let yourself feel down. This is important. You have to keep improving so that no one will underestimate you.

"Although I'm not a musician, many people like the musical instruments I craft, especially as décor objects or to play for fun. I use wood, leather and aluminum pipes, and sometimes I use leftover wood scraps to make the small instruments. I have several helpers and all have their own skills.""