What’s Its Name?

Who is Michael C. Fortune, and why bring him up?

Well, I want to quote him; but in order for you to believe what he says, I must establish his credentials as being a trustworthy, knowledgeable and credible authority in the area of his expertise.

Google his name, and several of the top entries pertain to the man. He is an acclaimed  “designer/maker, teacher and mentor…one of Canada’s most respected and creative contemporary furniture masters. “

“…his work has brought him an international clientele and reputation. He is acknowledged for both his technical and design expertise, giving lectures and workshops across Canada and the United States. His work has appeared in numerous exhibitions worldwide. In 1993 Fortune received the prestigious Prix Saidye Bronfman, Canada’s highest award in the crafts…He has taught at many schools and craft centers including; Sheridan College School of Crafts and Design, Ryerson Polytechnical Institute, the Rochester Institute of Technology NY, Worcester Center for Crafts in Massachusetts, Anderson Arts Center, Colorado, Savannah College of Art and Design and the Marc Adams School in Indiana where the fellowship program for advanced students has been named in his honor…”

Advanced Student

This is where I am leading you. It is precisely about one such former student of his to whom Fortune refers in a glowing letter of recommendation, a portion of which I will  quote.  (In my previous post, I mentioned that this “Advanced Student” is starting his own business in order to accommodate the growing need for beautiful church furnishings in the classical style.)

Here is what Michael Fortune has to say about this young entrepreneur, “I had the delightful opportunity to have [Name] participate in my studio as an intern for a month in the Spring of 2006.  [Name] had previously taken several classes with me at the Marc Adams School of of Woodworking in Indiana.  I extend this invitation only to those individuals who show exceptional promise as designer/craftspeople…..I am honored to consider [Name] a friend and colleague.”

That recommendation was from 6 years ago. Today [Name] is a certified Master craftsman with 10 years of experience in all phases of the making and installation of liturgical furnishings.

Yes! Forward With Tradition!

The winner will receive a wooden keepsake box similiar to this one.

Careful planning and paper work has already been done. The next phase is a company name.  (Publicity through Trad-friendly venues and a business website will follow.)   Anyone reading this blog is welcomed, and encouraged to submit ideas for the business name.  The winner will be rewarded with a very nice keepsake box, plus the satisfaction of seeing your winning suggestion appear in trad-friendly publications.

Just send in your suggestions into the com box.   The winner will be announced in no more than a week or two, so hurry.  “Advanced Student” and company are anxious to proceed!