In the Making: Craft Origins

January 29, 2021

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In the Making

“My dad filled candy and cigarette vending machines…. On the luckiest day of my life, he invited me to come with him on one of his stops. I was about six years old. When he opened the vending machine, it truly was as if a choir rang out—I was stunned. I immediately knew that I wanted to work with mechanical systems.”
– Barb Baker ’04

Craftspeople represent an incredible range of experiences and influences—from music and fashion to farming and machining. Now in our 140th year, as NBSS celebrates how we were founded and shaped as an institution, this event aimed to share the stories and memories of several artisans who found their life in craft.

On Thursday, January 28, 2021, we explored the beginnings of a #lifeincraft with six talented craftspeople from a variety of backgrounds. We’ve heard that it was an especially inspiring conversation for many who attended, as they fondly recalled their own creative beginnings.

View a video of the full conversation above.

Joining NBSS President and practicing artist Sarah Turner and NBSS staff member Kristen Odle were James Mason, Dean of Faculty and Professor of Fashion Design at MassArt; Jackie Blombach PC ’02, Preservation consultant and former professional dancer; Andrew Haines, Artist-Painter and frame conservator; and Barb Baker LK ’04, NBSS Department Head of Locksmithing & Security Technology. View the slideshow from the presentation.

Now it’s your turn! Join in the fun of our Founder’s Day celebration the week of February 4, 2021 by sharing your own #lifeincraft on social media. Memories, stories, photos, and more are all welcome. Learn more at the link below, and be sure to tag us @nbssboston!

Share your story of a #LifeinCraft | Founder's Day

“In the Making” is a new public programs series where we connect with a range of new voices, fields, and perspectives. Learn more and view a full list of participants on the series homepage.