The world through an artist’s eyes
Editor's Desk column
Ray Allegrezza -- Furniture Today, March 27, 2006
Although it was almost a decade ago, I still remember the first time I met Bob Timberlake. I was on an airplane headed back to New York. Sitting next to me was a very pleasant man with a shock of snow-white hair.
As often happens on planes, a conversation ensued. He asked what I was planning to do in Manhattan. I explained that I was on my way to discuss a job offer that held the promise for a substantial bump in salary.Before he could comment, I went on to explain that I was conflicted about the offer. While it represented a high double-digit pay hike and an exalted title, I was enjoying my new life living in North Carolina. Taking the job would mean I would have to leave the house that had become my new home.After looking at me for what seemed like a very long time, he said, “You know, it’s not always only about the money.” He then said something I’ve never forgotten: “Use your head to listen to your heart.”Those words ultimately helped me decide to pass on that higher-paying job and stay in the state that I’ve come to love. Timberlake’s advice came flooding back to me the other day when he announced a deal that makes it possible for him to have the bulk of his furniture made where his heart told him it needs to be made: Davidson County, North Carolina. (
)I called Bob to congratulate him on his new venture. I reminded him of our first meeting and thanked him for being a guy who practices what he taught me.I also told Bob that I hoped retailers and consumers would reward him for putting his money where his heart is. Bob said that while he hoped so too, he has never done anything based simply on what other people do or think.Instead, he hopes the industry and consumers will see his furniture the way he sees it: as pieces of American collectibles made in the state that inspired them, by people who are inspired by the craft of furniture making.
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The world through an artist's eyes
Apr 2, 2006
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