LAM Treasures Local Art in New Plane Models

Recently, the management of Mozambique Airlines (LAM) presented to the public the new plane models that will decorate the company’s travel agencies, stores and offices. The novelty is the innovation associated with the concept of conservation and environmental sustainability and the appreciation of art and local artists. There are, in total, 100 models, made in mafurreira wood and signed by Dino Jethá, a psikhelekedana artist.

Psikhelekedana is an ancient and popular art, originating in the southern region of Mozambique; it is a type of sculpture made from the so-called “white wood” of mafurreira or cashew trees. Originally, artisans sculpted animals and warriors, but Dino Jethá gradually stood out for his ability and dexterity to creatively represent moments in the history and life of the Mozambican people.

His vast work is known and recognized outside the country. Since 2009, he has been a regular guest at the International Folk Art Market, one of the largest craft exhibitions in the world, organized annually in the city of Santa Fé, in the United States of America.

Recently, the 46-year-old Mozambican artist developed a joint project to produce miniature airplanes made from mafurreira wood with LAM. The challenge was made by LAM’s general management, as a way of valuing the artist’s work as well as promoting the LAM brand in the country and across the border.

“We always produce models made in various countries around the world in plastic or other inert material. This time, we thought about trying it out with an artist and we were impressed with the quality of the artist and the material used”, explained LAM’s General Director, Engineer João Carlos Pó, at the official delivery of the models, held at LAM’s facilities, in Maputo, at the end of June, the month in which Mozambique celebrated 48 years of Independence.

In total, 100 aircraft models were carved from the secondary roots of mafurreira, without cutting down the trees. In fact, the project envisages the planting of more trees in areas to be identified to allow for the conservation of the environment and the sustainable production of more miniatures in the future. According to the artist, the production and finishing process of the 100 airplane models took around 60 days.

“This partnership with LAM means an important “flight” in my career. It is an honor to be here presenting my work, which could soon multiply employment for artisans”, noted Dino Jethá at the time.

LAM’s intention is to place the innovative models in all of its travel agencies, stores and offices. The first copy has already been offered to the President of the Republic.