Marco Goouoo (46), a member of the Karen Hilltribe minority group, makes his mark with the design of decorative Mangowood products. A sustainable trade, Mangowood is salvaged from mango orchards, and is a smooth and easily workable medium. Introduced to the art of carving by a Swiss friend, Marco identified the superior skills of carvers in the Chiang Mai region and put his ideas into action.

Largely his own design, Marco is inspired by nature and everyday objects, “Even melting ice-creams” influence his art. “Some people have a creative mind and good imagination but lack skill. On the other hand, some people have skills but no creativity. I think I have both. I use my own design and instruct craftsmen on how to shape the raw material.” Marco hopes that his artwork brings a feeling of harmony and happiness, and is proud of his work and how his small business has developed.