BrianPowley
~ Elite 1000 Member ~
Because of cultural differences, we do not have an apprenticeship program (or equivalent system) for learning the art of engraving in the U.S.
Here, we had to glean the knowledge any way we could. Many have had to reinvent the wheel because of the lack of information, but the internet and private/commercial studios has changed much of the landscape.
Many say they are "Master Engravers" but are really just "experienced". By the way---experience isn't always a good determining factor. We all know very experienced people that are total screw-ups at the job they do. I think many have tweaked the term "Master Engraver" to suit themselves and their customers.
(Same as the word Bulino----Bulino is the tool, not the style of engraving. No wonder the Europeans scratch their heads when we talk)
I may be a FEGA Certified Master Engraver, but all that means is I have met their standards at the time of my application and probably doesn't mean much in other countries. FEGA is the only guild we have in the U.S. Founded by a group of talented people with a passion for this artform.
It is my responsibility to uphold those standards to those who judged my work. It is not a license to put out "experience" for the sake of my own personal gain.
Don't misunderstand---There's nothing wrong with having an advantage, but there's plenty of fault for taking advantage.
Here, we had to glean the knowledge any way we could. Many have had to reinvent the wheel because of the lack of information, but the internet and private/commercial studios has changed much of the landscape.
Many say they are "Master Engravers" but are really just "experienced". By the way---experience isn't always a good determining factor. We all know very experienced people that are total screw-ups at the job they do. I think many have tweaked the term "Master Engraver" to suit themselves and their customers.
(Same as the word Bulino----Bulino is the tool, not the style of engraving. No wonder the Europeans scratch their heads when we talk)
I may be a FEGA Certified Master Engraver, but all that means is I have met their standards at the time of my application and probably doesn't mean much in other countries. FEGA is the only guild we have in the U.S. Founded by a group of talented people with a passion for this artform.
It is my responsibility to uphold those standards to those who judged my work. It is not a license to put out "experience" for the sake of my own personal gain.
Don't misunderstand---There's nothing wrong with having an advantage, but there's plenty of fault for taking advantage.
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