The “Tree of Life” is a particularly poignant symbol in Haiti. Trees are a precious, though rapidly disappearing resource, where less than 1.5% of natural growth remains, due to deforestation. The culprits: poor land management practices and grinding poverty. Between land being cleared for subsistence farming - which constitutes two-thirds of Haitian labor activity - and wood being harvested to provide 70% of the nation’s fuel, the tropical forests of Haiti are virtually gone. The upshot is topsoil erosion amounting to 36 million tons annually, accelerated land degradation, silting lakes and waterways, increased greenhouse gases, and deaths numbering in the thousands due to mudslides when heavy weather strikes.
 
This piece is hand cut from recycled 50 gallon steel drums. Both ends of the drum are removed and placed inside of the remaining cylinder along with scrap paper, dried banana or sugar cane leaves. It is set on fire, to burn off any paint or residue. When cooled, the drum is cut down the side and flattened out to create a "metal canvas" of approximately 3' x 6', upon which the design is drawn. Using hammer, chisel and various primitive tools, the shape is cut and the various decorative patterns are pounded into the metal, creating a unique and treasured piece of primitive art. The finished design is coated with a protective finish. Can be hung indoors or outdoors.
 
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