While traveling in Bali I was struck by the beautiful temples built by hand to contemplate Buddha. Each home, whether grandiose or humble, had a special area for daily prayer and rituals of burning incense, leaving offerings of flowers and food.

The Balinese are hard working artisans, each family specializing in a craft passed down from generation to generation. I connected with their creative spirit. These are a peaceful people, gentle and kind.

I painted this series to honor those people who lost their lives in the bombing in Bali only one day after I left.

Marti Schmidt - June 2004