Bernardo Gonzalez Maroto, Borucan Artist

“I was one of Don Ismael’s students--and feel very fortunate to have learned from one of the best. I make sure my designs are special and unique, compared to others. I am proud that, with the help from these masks, I was able to pay for my son to attend a special school in San Jose. My family is important to me, so I try to spend my free time with them.”

Bernardo is a prolific artist, who is often in high demand in his village. He sometimes carves his own pieces, but mostly spends his time collaborating with other artists who trade their carving skills for his quality painting. When he’s not working on a mask, he spends his time with his family and working on his studies. One day, he would like to dedicate some time to learning the art of tattooing.