The compact size of this retablo makes it very portable. Why wouldn't you want to take it along to bless your trip? Happy Buddha dude raises his hands aloft holding wealth balls, while firmly planted on a red Sedona rock. The Tibetan flag image is captioned "Long Life" (at bottom, covered with necklaces) and provides a colorful background for the contents.
Vintage green toolbox, bone bracelet pieces, Tibetan prayer flag, red rock from Sedona (Arizona), Buddha figurine, Thai charm, brass jewelry fragment, green wooden bead necklace, orange (clay?) necklace, satin flowers.
Artist statement: During the 1940s resurgence of the retablo art form in Peru, “a distinction emerged between the retablo for ritual and religious purposes and the retablo as decoration.” (Wikipedia). My works are a celebration of the retablo as art form, and are not necessarily tied to any religion or religious figure.
I create pieces that are more than just deals an assemblage of disparate parts – they tell, or suggest, a cohesive story. The whimsical titles allow the observer to further imagine that story.
To achieve an aged look in my retablos, one of the most important elements is the metal toolbox or wooden box container. Most of the elements inside are imperfect found objects, recycled and repurposed to give them new life. The title/signature labels are an integral part of the artwork and are usually prominently displayed.
These artworks are completely unique, one of a kind, and original cbphoenix Toolbox Retablos™. They are designed to stand open on a flat surface, and are also transportable. I strive for the highest quality of craftsmanship so the work will last for a lifetime and longer.
Product code: Blissful Buddha deals of the Long-Life Blessings -- Toolbox Retablo Assemblage