Fourth Journey Day 50: The Hammer’s Trace

The day began with anticipation as I made my way to the artist village of Noailles in Croix-des-Bouquets. The rhythmic sounds of hammers striking metal greeted me before I even entered the village. The streets were abuzz with creativity, every corner filled with artisans bringing intricate metalwork to life.
I wandered through the workshops, marveling at the skill and dedication of the artists. Each piece told a story, with designs inspired by Haiti's folklore and natural beauty. One artist, Gérard, shared the story behind his work - a sprawling tree of life sculpture symbolizing resilience. His passion was contagious, and I found myself engrossed in his story.
The textures and shapes of the metal art sparked ideas for my own work. Before leaving, I purchased a small, intricately cut piece depicting the sun and moon in balance - a reminder of today's harmony.
On the way back, the streets of Port-au-Prince buzzed with vibrant energy, children laughing and vendors shouting. As I reflected on the day, I felt grateful for the warmth of the people and the inspiration this place offered.