René won honorable mention in woodcarving in FOFA’s 2008 young artists’ competition with his piece, “The Giraffe” that he both carved and painted. Having learned his craft from his father, mother and uncles, he attempts to represent something aesthetic and feminine, not merely an animal. Giraffes are among his favorite animals, because of their beauty an
d “sexiness.” From René’s perspective, one of the challenges of the artisan is to create a favorable impression for those who view his artwork. René’s use of large squares, as well as his style of mixing colors in painting “The Giraffe,” are rarely seen in Arrazola. The combination of colonial blue for the body, neopolitan yellow outlining the spots, and red for the chest is intended to blend art and beauty.
