Dalton Ghetti is a unique artist who transforms discarded pencils into artistic masterpieces. Born in Brazil, Ghetti is a forty-nine year old carpenter who began working with tools at the age of six, and sculpting with knives and hammers at the age of nine. Initially carving large sculptures, Ghetti moved towards microscopic art as he grew older. His small works of art are meant to “bring people’s attention to small things” (Ghetti). When I first came across his carved pencil art I was amazed with the skill and patience it must take to sculpt lead. I was also surprised to find out that he does not use a magnifying glass.
In order to successfully carve the lead from a pencil, Ghetti works slowly using a sewing needle and a small blade. The maximum time per day that he spends carving is one to two hours. As he spends a great deal of time being a carpenter, his sculptures can take years to complete.
When I began researching Ghetti’s life and artistic process, I learned that he views his art-making as a personal and meditative hobby. I also discovered that he does not buy pencils, but rather picks up discarded pencils on the street and transforms their purpose as “a recycling process” (Ghetti). The way Ghetti transforms used objects inspires me view items in my home (that I would originally throw away) in new and creative perspectives.
As of now, Ghetti is continuing to work on an art project that he began in 2002. “When September 11 happened I was in tears all day and couldn’t do much for a while. I decided to make a teardrop pencil carving for each of the people who died in the attack, about 3,000. Since 2002 I have carved one every day, it takes me under an hour. When I’m done they will form one big tear drop. It will take me about 10 years but it will be worth it” (Ghetti).
If you are interested in learning more about Ghetti’s life, art and/or current projects, here are links:
http://www.daltonmghetti.com/index.asp
https://www.facebook.com/DaltonGhetti
If you like Ghetti’s art, you will also enjoy the incredible work of:
Diem Cheu (http://www.diemchau.com/default.html) and
Cerkahegyzo (http://www.boredpanda.com/pencil-sculptures-cerkahegyzo/
Picture References:
http://copasetica.net/post/35714392867/incredible-pencil-carvings-by-dalton-ghetti
http://www.daltonmghetti.com/index.asp
http://www.ephemera.blog.br/2011/10/26/esculturas-de-grafite/dalton-ghetti-19/
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