A Storied Career of Fine Craft

(Above: Necklace by Steven Ford and David Forlano)

Ford and Forlano have been working at their craft for over three decades, much to the delight of their clients and customers. Bookending their storied career, 32 years after their very first time at the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show, Ford + Forlano will exhibit together for their last time at this year’s Show. 

Now in its 46th year, the PMA Craft Show has become known among artists and attendees as one of the best contemporary craft shows in the country. “The Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show has always been our place to launch new pieces,” remarks David Forlano. “The new work would appear there first, because we knew that the audience was sophisticated and would respond honestly. We can’t wait to bring our 30-year retrospective to our loyal audience as well as new faces at the PMA Craft Show this November.”

(Above: Work by Steven Ford and David Forlano)

Steven Ford and David Forlano met during a semester abroad in Italy in 1985 through Temple University’s Tyler School of Art. After college, their desire to make fine art paintings led them to work together in construction just to be able to pay their bills and purchase art supplies. Ironically, after working construction during the day, they had nothing left for studio time energy-wise. They switched focus and collaborated on a jewelry collection. Using their love of color and design, Steven and David were early adopters to creating and experimenting with the lesser used material of polymer clay which over time led to developing their unique one-of-a-kind necklaces and bracelets. Meant as a way to continue making money to support their love of painting, their unexpected segue turned into a 34-year career as fine craft artists. In 1990, they were juried into the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show for the first time and as a result, their career in jewelry design grew exponentially. “We both know our success was connected directly to showcasing our work at the PMA Craft Show,” says Steven Ford. “It’s a show that attracts such amazing collectors who come from all around the country.”

(Above: Bracelet by Steven Ford and David Forlano)

Since Ford & Forlano’s first Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show, several notable museums have purchased their work for their permanent collections, including The Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Museum of Art & Design in New York City, The Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, MA. 

Come to this year’s Show and see the work of 195 of the finest contemporary craft artists in the country. Click HERE for more information and to purchase tickets.