Worthy of Their Hire

“Worthy of Their Hire” is a series of photographic portraits of working craftsmen; that is, artisans whose work is utilitarian or “useful” in nature, rather than decorative. This does not mean that it excludes craftsmen whose work has a strong aesthetic element. On the contrary, the ethic that these artisans have in common with each other is that they have integrated the aesthetic with the utilitarian in a way that is uniquely theirs, and which has come to define their sense of life.

One criterion for inclusion in this series was that the artisans be earning their living at their work – in other words, their work is not a hobby or avocation, but has standing in the marketplace, with all that entails in our culture. This is particularly remarkable as one comes to understand that without exception, these craftsmen have set for themselves very high standards of quality, and have steadfastly refused to compromise them.

In addition to making the portraits, I was able to interview many of these people about their lives and work.. When excerpts from these interviews accompany the portraits, what emerges is an illuminating, provocative comment on values and priorities in these times.

My intent in this series is to honour the concept of “right livelihood”, and to show that there are many paths to, and definitions of, success at earning one’s living. I feel that this work touches on many contemporary issues. It also explores the preservation and continuation of skills which are in danger of irretrievable loss.

Ray Van Nes