Online Craftsmanship Museum
Doug Hicks sent me this link to The Internet Craftsmanship Museum. As their homepage says, they exist for “Presenting the best craftsmen from around the world and their miniature projects in metal and wood.”
Just like a brick-and-mortar museum, you can browse the works of craftsmen from all over the world. But unlike a brick-and-mortar museum, you can view these works from the comfort of your own home and at your own leisure. For example, you can look at the wood reproductions of heavy equipment by Chuck Hoggarth. You can see one of his projects in the photo on the left.
And speaking of craftsmanship, Bill Gould wrote a great article on our society’s perception of craftsmanship. Does our culture shun true craftsmanship? Why bother to strive for perfection in our craft? He defines craftsmen as “those who make things by hand, in a manner that exhibits mastery of their craft, whether as an avocation or profession.” Bill sums up the article with some things you and I can do to share our passion and value of true craftsmanship.
I hope that as you spend time in your shop, you give some thought to the projects you’re working on and apply your skills as a craftsman. Strive for perfection. Be patient in your work. Take your time to plan every move and every cut with a tool. Your work will show the difference. And even if nobody else appreciates your craftsmanship, you can take pride in the work of your hands, mind, and heart.