I have enclosed a copy of a letter I received regarding the state of the Northwest Fine Woodworking Cooperative. The economic news had been bleak for a while and the possibility of another wonderful “institution” going under keeps one wondering. Just an FYI.
_______________________________________________________________________________________

NorthWest Fine Woodworking
celebrating 29 years as a cooperative gallery
Greetings!

As someone who has followed Northwest Fine Woodworking for some time, it may come as a surprise to know our gallery is facing the very real possibility of not existing in the near future. Many businesses revered as established institutions are struggling to hold on and our local coop is no exception.

As of April 30th, NWFW will be laying off all but one staff person and the woodworkers themselves will return to working in the store every day, just as they did when the gallery first opened it’s doors in 1980. Over the past several months these artists have contributed endless hours and income to problem solving strategies, gallery events and the continued creation of beautiful artisan furniture. Unfortunately these efforts have not resulted in enough business and cutting back staff is the last step before closing the doors for good.

Studio furniture is a uniquely American art and the cooperative’s tight-knit group of furniture makers embody the true spirit of our northwest community. Many years ago, I thought my career path was that of a furniture maker. I had the fortunate opportunity to apprentice with local woodworker Kate Joyce, one of the coop’s original founding members. I was hooked – though not patient or talented enough to succeed as a furniture maker! Years later I was thrilled to join the NWFW gallery and ever since my adoration for this wonderful group of artists has flourished. Those who build for a living are responding to a calling from deep within, for it is not an easy path to making a living.

I have come to learn that many of you share my reverence for custom furniture and this cooperative gallery. Hundreds of people have told vivid personal tales of that distinctively memorable piece which their minds relentlessly hold on to. Reacquainting on your visits to our gallery has been a highlight of my time here.

The Northwest Fine Woodworking is comprised of a wide array of artisans – some just starting their woodworking careers, others still building for more than 60 years. The artists work in small shops, often by themselves, using exquisite materials, traditional construction methods and the creative juices flowing from their soul. Schools, museums, private collectors and lovers of wood return year after year. It will be the saddest of days if our community loses this asset.

I know this crew of passionate furniture makers will do everything imaginable to enable their business to stay afloat during these strained economic times. I urge everyone to lend them a hand and tell your friends what is happening. For anyone who has intended to buy work from this amazing group of artists, now is certainly the time.

Sincere gratitude and kind wishes to all,

SHARON RICCI
Director, Northwest Fine Woodworking

Northwest Fine Woodworking
101 S. Jackson St. (at the corner of 1st Ave in Pioneer Square)
Seattle, WA 98178

www.nwfinewoodworking.com
[email protected]

206.625.0542