About
Innovative ideas, created for today's international markets.
That's why these products have sold successfully with many of the worlds most recognized retailers.
ARTISANS
Practical understanding of the realities of working in artisan projects in emerging countries.
Absolute commitment to developing products that result in significant sales.
Expertise in design driven sales. Sales increased from minimal to 750K+ per year in Peru working with Aid to Artisans by a combination of creating market driven designs and proper sales strategy.
ASIA
Extensive experience working in factories in China & Thailand.
I am a skilled problem solver with the ability to quickly modify designs to suit factory needs.
Seasoned at working on the ground with new manufacturers, modifying their existing processes to new products.
Familiarity with the reality of
manufacturing in Asia, combined with remarkable patience.
DESIGN
I like to design products that sell.
I believe that if a product is beautiful it will do well in the marketplace.
I am an experienced photo frame designer as well as housewares and ceramics.
I believe that you have to design with the customer in mind, always aware that what you create must be compelling.
Sales of my designs are in the multi-million dollar range.
I have lived and worked in China, Peru, Thailand and West Africa. These travels have defined my life, and informed my knowledge of different cultures, as well as given me a solid background in how to get things made.
My original training was in technical ceramics and fine art. As a fine art painter, I was carried by Gumps of San Francisco- this back ground led to a business producing picture frames as the owner of one of the largest operations in the Bay Area. Ultimately, this company grew into designing and producing items for some of the largest retailers in the US, and led to a grounded business approach to design.
Moving into design rather than manufacture, I began designing and then working on site overseas. These products, many produced by Umbra, led to impressive annual sales and further experience in a variety of Asian factories and materials. I’ve had the good fortune of working closely with Paul Rowan, whom I consider the best in the business.
Currently, I hold multiple patents for various household products.
At the same time, I contracted with Aid to Artisans to develop and work on site in Peru and Ghana. Our goal was to work hand in hand with local artisans to develop salable products. Much of this work was at the village level, and resulted in remarkable sales, producing much needed income for these extraordinary craftspersons. This work has been the most satisfying of my career.
I divide my time between Northern California, Portland, and a lot of hotel rooms.
Let’s talk. I’m always interested in formidable projects.