Toolbox was created thanks to the care, patience, and generosity of countless teachers, mentors, and tradespeople. In lending me their ears, eyes, and insights, my vision for Toolbox took tangible form. I come to them with profound gratitude.

Arriving in the United States as a thirteen-year-old refugee was intimidating to say the least. Fortunately, my ESL teachers offered a balm during a time of challenging transition. Mr. Peak’s teaching transcended mathematical equations, demonstrating perseverance, discipline and a keen sense of precision that informed all my artmaking and professional work.

With fondness and life-long respect, I owe my early entry into the arts to the late Laura Russo, (Russo Lee Gallery). Her mentorship opened the door to the fine arts, leaving a lasting impact on my understanding of artistic practices. Encouragement came from other directions as well, including the late Paul G. Allen’s acquisition of my work, affirming my belief that the cornerstone of the journey lies in the process of creation.

I also extend heartfelt gratitude to Brenda Bonnell and Mark Zusman, my first employers, while I was a student at Lewis & Clark College. Their early belief in me evolved into a life-long friendship grounded in generosity, encouragement, and care.

From the Rose Garden Arena Project, I express sincere gratitude to Project Executive Steve Robinson; Project Administrator Roger Fricke; Sr Project Manager Gene Fatur, and the late Walt Lemon III, Sr. Estimator. Their leadership ensured that I never lose sight of the intricacy, collaboration and humanity inherent to the built environment.

Moreover, to the more than three thousand tradespeople I connected with while working at the Rose Garden Arena, I carry your smiles and kindness with me every day. I learned a new lesson from every conversation, face and hand contributing to the work. You showed me how craftsmanship weaves its own culture, and that every person who builds for others does so with artistry and imagination.

Toolbox emerges out of this spirit of gratitude, echoing the belief that craft and culture are inseparable, and that those who build our shelters and cities are formidable artists. I remember the legacy of civic and public arts advocates such as the late Arlene Schnitzer, who rightly said that “a city without an art community has no soul.” Toolbox exists to honor craft, culture, and you, the community.