Today we’d like to introduce you to John Foster.
John, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
While studying Philosophy at Boston University (1981), I took an elective in woodworking/furniture making.
I knew immediately that this is what I wanted to do and worked to make it possible.
Has it been a smooth road?
I wouldn’t call it a smooth road. Obtaining work in this field is difficult and competitive.
I benefited from establishing the shop in a barn at my home, and keeping the overhead low. In the beginning, I was willing to take any job available. Some projects were interesting and challenging, others, not so much.
There is a quote posted in the shop by Logan Pearsall Smith; “The test of a vocation is the love of the drudgery involved.”
We’d love to hear more about your business.
FCF is a small one man shop. I specialize in designing and building custom furniture and cabinetry. I am proud of all of the work I have produced over the years. However, in 2015 I designed, and built two benches, for Hopkinton, the town I live in. One was for the 300th Anniversary of the town and contains three time capsules in the seat. The second was for the Hopkinton Center for the Arts. Both benches were made from cherry that was cut locally.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
The Boston area is a great place for artists to produce and exhibit work. In the beginning, the Society of Arts and Crafts was very supportive, and instrumental in getting me started. They showed my work in their Newbury street gallery, and asked me to participate in some furniture shows. This exposure got the proverbial ball rolling.
I have not participated in a group exhibition for many years because my schedule has been full. However, over the years I’ve been collecting select woods with the thought of participating in a future furniture show.
Contact Info:
- Address: Foster Custom Furniture
78 Pleasant St.
Hopkinton, MA 01748 - Website: www.fostercustomfurniture.com
- Phone: 508-435-6679
- Email: john@fostercustomfurniture.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/fostercustomfurniture
Image Credit:
Mike Torosian HCAM
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