The Al Stohlman Award for Achievement in Leathercraft honors the accomplishments of individual leather workers worldwide for their continued dedication and exemplary service to leathercraft. [1] [2] The criteria for nominations are someone who has demonstrated continued devotion to the advancement of leathercraft, [3] following the example of Al Stohlman, who is most well-known for publishing over 40 books, creating numerous pattern packs, and innovating many new tools for leatherworking. [4] [5]
Recipients of the medal are recognized based on their overall achievements in leathercraft. [6] Considered criteria for an award nomination include a biological sketch, chronological listing of achievements, teaching history, public galleries, and innovative applications. [1] [7] This award is presented annually by the Al and Ann Stohlman Award Foundation at the various national leather trade shows. [3] [8]
Al Stohlman, who passed away in 1998, was a master craftsman, gifted artist and pioneer in leathercrafting techniques. His work has influenced hundreds of thousands of leathercrafters worldwide, through the media of tool designs, patterns, instruction books and personal demonstrations.
Not only did delegates come from all over Australia and New Zealand to attend, but where else in the world could you find five of the prestigious Al Stohlman Award for Achievement in Leathercraft winners; Bob Park (Phoenix), Bob Beard (New Mexico), Akiko Okada (Kanagawa, Japan), Peter Main (Houston, Texas) and of course, Cherryl McIntyre (Brisbane, Australia), in the same room at the same time.