Drinks x Design C.A.N. Art Handworks Event

Windmills

A few months back Mrs. DVD returning from a trip to Eastern Market tells me, "You gotta go see these windmills off of Gratiot!" My response was, "Um, windmills on Gratiot?" She corrected me, and tells of what looks like an artist's studio one street to the north of Gratiot. We drive by a few days later, and sure enough there are windmills, in fact two of them. I note the decorative name on the metal fence, C.A.N. Art Handworks.

Ornamental Entrance Sign

Planning for a Story

I look up the place on the web, and it's the metal workshop of Carl A. Nielbock. He is a master craftsman in architectural ornamental metalwork and design. He learned his trade in Germany and moved to Detroit when he was 24 years old. I realize that this would be a great story to share on Detroit Video Daily and plan on contacting him.

Outdoor Workspace

Coincidence

Last week I pick up a Metro Times and sure enough I see an ad for Drinks x Design, an event sponsored by the Detroit Creative Corridor Center. The event is an open house with a tour of the C.A.N. Art Handworks and a talk by Mr. Nielbock. I share the info. with Mrs. DVD, and the date is set.

The Open House

We enjoyed touring the area outside of his studio where the two windmills and an incredible replica of a gate designed for the World Expo in 1862 reside. Later, Mr. Nielbock gave a tour of the inside, and it was fascinating to hear him talk of his craft and plans for the future. One of the projects in the works is a restoration of the clock tower and sculptures from Detroit's Old City Hall building (built in 1871 and demolished in 1961).  (Side note, the site HistoricDetroit.org has a great write up on the history of that building, to read the story click here.)

Carl A. Nielbock

World Expo Gate Replica

Detroit's Future

Mr. Nielbock is extremely knowledgeable, and he spoke with passion on the importance of skilled trades and how the work of craftsman could transform the city. His plans incorporate the educating and training of people, creation of artistic pieces, and uplifting the culture of the city. His talk was rich in history, and he graciously answered questions, elaborating and clarifying on the work he's done and his plans for the future. It was a beautiful summer evening in the city and artistically uplifting as well.

Gate and Windmill

Note Spirit of Detroit Replica

More Information

If you haven't yet checked out his website, do yourself a favor and take a look (of course after you watch the video of the Detroit x Design event :) Here again is the link to his website: C.A.N. Art Handworks.