Interesting TEDD talk about 'craftsmanship' ....

[Toolfool]

I know I have asked the same questions at times, and I 'm sure many of the members here have opinions on this topic. Let's hear them.
https://www.woodworkingnetwork.com/...m_campaign=Pumpkin carving woodworker style 🎃 .

 

[jar944]

Comes off a bit whiny imho.

 

[KenC]

IMHO, The question is: Is the value of the object, especially art objects, in the imagination, conception or the fine motor skills need to execute the vision?

I don't have the answer, except to say that mass production can allow many people to enjoy what used to be affordable to only the rich.

 

[K'ledgeBldr]

"Let me pat myself on the back"...

 

[vrinner]

When I am designing and making my glass project for clients, I often wonder how "machine like" they want the results and sometimes I struggle with trying to do that. Gladly I can say no one has ever complained about the "imperfections " in my handmade art.

I've checked out a water jet thinking it would be an advantage or making things easier but I am enjoying the perfect imperfections.

 

[Zeke]

Whenever you lose personal touch with the object of craftsmanship, it is no longer craft. When he includes production and outsourcing, that to me is no longer craftmanship. It may better, cheaper, or a lot beneficial things, but the craft part is diminished. Things don't have to be hand made, but they must remain under direct control (even if help is involved) of the craftsperson.

We know the great classic artists didn't always labor to paint the background. But if it's drywall finishing we are talking about, it's the guy with mud on his shirt, not the boss. When the boss picks up the tools, he can once again be a craftsman.

I had long discussions many years ago with an artist of some fame. I actually produced some of the sculptures that were done in fiberglass in fiberglass molds that I made. I was the craftsman and she was the artist because it was her idea done under her supervision. She could not have done what I did quality or otherwise. That's why I was there.

So, there's there's that discussion too, art vs. craft.

 

[Kuma601]

In my segment it is semi-production. Plenty of businesses implement CNC so that they can feed themselves and have $ coming in. Some craftspeople can make a good living if they reach that upper % and have the buyers. The masses may not be willing to spend that much nor they may not be aware what a bespoke item entails. Some of the hands on makers can do exceptional pieces and that translates into many craft areas.

Luthiers like John Monteleone's works bring big $.

I make these for the enjoyment of creating something but if I were to want to feed myself, it's hard physical work that uses up my hands.

 

[brownbagg]

im not a craftman, Im not good at anything. I been welding for over forty years, but i cant weld, so i was told to just sell all my welding equipment

 

[Zeke]

im not a craftman, Im not good at anything. I been welding for over forty years, but i cant weld, so i was told to just sell all my welding equipment

You have to plug it in and turn it on. Or you can just lay the rod in the groove and use Super Glue.

 

[yeldogt]

Interesting discussion.

Technology has been eliminating the "craftsman" in a big way for the past couple of hundred years ... when does high craftsman become art?

People have to make a living .. at any given time there are valuable skills that we all look at and understand -- some are better. The need for that skill can vanish.

The trades have been gutted .... we assemble today.