A few years ago I took up the Puerto Rican tradition of wooden saint whittling as a hobby, but soon enough this little hobby turned into one of my biggest passions. Even though I am considered a novice in this business, wood whittling has already contributed to my set of skills. It’s not only a relaxing past-time, but it’s also fostered in me an interest to pay attention to the detail and craft of my work. Besides developing my manual dexterity, whittling has taken a more important role in my life.
While saint carving is still prevalent in Puerto Rico, it’s mostly carried on by an older generation of wood carvers. Not enough young people are involved in this practice. So, whittling has evolved from my favorite hobby, to my personal contribution to the continuity of our oldest traditions. It’s the way I honor my heritage, and the part of my culture I can take anywhere.
