“I feel such pride when my carvings can create beautiful memories for visitors during our festivities. It’s something very special for everyone involved. I feel great joy and peace knowing that people will carry these wonderful memories and good impressions of my culture.”

After plenty of hard work, Jose Manuel has improved his art immensely--he is now much more satisfied with his finished products. He appreciates the impact his masks have on other people--especially those who are foreign to his culture. He hopes to one day have children and raise them to appreciate the Boruca traditions and appreciate nature.