Nicodemus Joseph

About the artist

Nicodemus Joseph, an indigenous artisan from Nappi Village, on the border of the Kanuku Mountains Protected Area, is one of the few remaining practitioners of the traditional balata craft. A unique art form using natural latex from the bulletwood trees to create detailed wildlife figures. These figures feature painted details inspired by his own encounters in the wild around Guyana.

As many artisans have moved away or passed on, Nicodemus remains committed to preserving this cultural heritage and passing it on to younger generations. For Nicodemus, balata is more than a livelihood, it’s a connection to his roots and a legacy he hopes to share.