I have had the pleasure of working with Clay and Michelle Conner to find a home in Raleigh. Clay is the owner of Clay Conner Guitars and handcrafts some of the most exquisite guitars I have ever seen. I am having a somewhat unhealthy obsession with it for a guy who can't play music (but may be motivated to learn).
Even more than musical instruments, though, I have realized I am completely enamored with the amount of people in my generation who still place such a high value on handmade goods. Check out Victor and Sarah at Raleigh Denim where they make jeans on vintage sewing machines or Evan Lightner who designs furniture that will someday be seen at MoMA. I live in Raleigh, North Carolina and I am surrounded by artists, craftsman, and -dare I say- innovators.
What an interesting dynamic... people in older generations are overwhelmed by the amount of technological innovation we uncover everyday, while I consider innovators to be people my age and younger who still take the time to learn a trade or a skill and hone a craft.
The Handmade Market is coming up on May 12 in downtown Raleigh. Hope to see you there!
I'll be the guy who is admiring the guitar he can't play, the handbags he doesn't use and the jewelry he won't wear.
