Our annual Student Alumni and Faculty Exhibition took place just two weeks ago at the Roberts Creek Community Hall. Each of the first seven years had representation. Some students made significant sacrifice to attend this years exhibition, including Kylle and Haley Sebree who traveled all the way from San Diego California. Kyle's table in Claro walnut, which he harvested, was exceptionally well done, something we have come to expect from this fine young craftsman. Family and friends came from as far off as Israel to join us for this years celebration.
An Alumni brunch took place the following morning at the Gumboot Restaurant adjacent to the school. Yvonne and I would like to thank all who attended and joined us in a weekend of celebration of work and of course the journey. Photography of student and alumni work took place during the final week which will be posted in the coming weeks when it returns from our photographer. The following Saturday our graduation ceremony took place at the Gumboot Cafe.
Another year has come to close at Inside Passage School of Fine Cabinetmaking. The work presented at our annual student alumni and faculty exhibition showed a dedication to the craft which inspired all in attendance. Once the doors were closed and the students and alumni were enjoying each others company, Yvonne and I had an opportunity to enjoy each of the pieces and reflect back on yet another years work at the school. Next fall, we have our largest contigent of students returning for another year of study.
Yvonne and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our students, past and present and remind them that this school not only exists for you but because of you. Jacques Breau for his assistance and patience in the final weeks; and of course Gary Kent who served his seventh year as our relief teacher. Gary presented the life after school talk this year where he reflected back on thirty years at the craft since leaving the College of the Redwoods.
In a few days we will begin our eight session of the Artisan program and the first session of our new Journeyman Program, where we have new students coming from as far off as Ireland and Australia as well as several alumni returning to continue on with their craft education.
Alumni News
Ian Godfrey’s desk ‘Pippa’ has reached the final ten in Dwell magazines live and work compitition. Votes can be submitted here Dwell Live Work Design Contest
Nicholas Nelson's cabinet made during the 2008-2009 Craftsman Program received Best in Show at the Minnesota Woodworkers Guild Northern Woods Exhibition along with Peer's Choice, and privately awarded Paul Lee award which goes to "the best entry that has a playful spirit and sound construction."
In the same exhibition, Craig Johnson received the award for Best Detail for a wall cabinet made here at the school the same year. Craig won Best in Show two years ago with his sideboard made at the school that same year.
I am delighted to have been asked to present this fall at the Minnesota Woodworkers guild fall seminar in November.
Yvonne and I would like to extent our heartfelt congratulations to each of these fine craftsman. You have done us proud.