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For generations, Nappi Village has been known for its balata craft. Today, one of the local villagers keeping the tradition alive is Nicodemus Joseph, a 2nd-generation balata bleeder. At 56, he has spent much of his life shaping this unique material into figurines that reflect the wildlife of the Rupununi and across the country’s diverse National Protected Areas System.

What is Balata?
Balata is a natural latex harvested from the bulletwood tree. In other parts of South America, it has been used for rubber products, but in Nappi, it is shaped into handmade figuriness – a practice found nowhere else.

Nicodemus first learned the craft from his Uncle George. As a young man, he accompanied him during the rainy season to bleed balata trees. Some bulletwood trees can live for over 300 years, with the same trees providing balata for multiple generations. The work was labour-intensive, but it became an important part of his life. Balata can only be collected once a year. After harvesting, it is boiled, kneaded, and sometimes mixed with colour. With shears and small hand tools, Nicodemus shapes the soft material into figurines of various animals found in Guyana. Each figurine is textured and detailed by hand.

In the past, balata figures were made in plain brown. Today, paint allows for more realism, while still holding to the traditions of its original forms. Nicodemus takes pride in the jaguar and harpy eagle figurines, both drawn from animals he has seen in the wild.

Over the years, many of the artisans have moved away or passed on, reducing local practices today. However, Nicodemus continues, determined to preserve the craft and share it with the younger generation. He lives simply, selling his work to visitors in the village, in the Region and in Georgetown. By gathering raw materials from Katoka, some miles from his home, he is also supporting neighbouring communities

Support from the Protected Areas Trust has made a difference through a partnership with the Guyana Marketing Corporation. Each figurine now carries a tag showing his name and origin, giving recognition to both Nicodemus, his craftsmanship and his village. With this support, his craft is reaching a wider audience. His work also supports the Protected Areas Trust by allowing us to showcase the wildlife of Guyana’s protected areas. These figurines display our biodiversity in a tangible form and act as an awareness-raising tool, leaving meaningful impressions and helping to foster support for our Protected Areas.

For Nicodemus, balata is more than a way to earn. It is a link to his past and a gift he hopes to pass on.

To purchase these, visit the Guyana Shop located at Cheddi Jagan International Airport, contact the Protected Areas Trust at local conservation events around Georgetown or reach out to us via email or on our social channels.

More About the Protected Areas Trust (Guyana)

 The Protected Areas Trust (PAT) is Guyana’s national conservation trust fund dedicated to supporting the effective management and sustainable use of Guyana’s network of protected areas. Established to provide long-term financial and technical support, PAT works in close collaboration with its donors, governmental agencies, civil society, and local communities to safeguard the country’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programs and financial mechanisms, PAT promotes conservation, community empowerment, and resilience—ensuring that protected areas continue to serve as vital ecological and economic assets for present and future generations.