By Janet Black
In the early days of symposium there was really no actual theme, Gordon Schmuhl AIFD LIFE recalls. Gordon was the Symposium Coordinator in 1972 and our AIFD® President in 1974-1975. The focus was to invite designers with a “style” to present to the audience, inspiring the attendees with excitement and creativity to take back to their shops. Lee Cantley AIFD LIFE was a featured designer, and showcased green paintings in terrariums, bubble bowls and many other vessels. Arrangements by Larry Foltz consisted of strictly dry materials.
There was no budget set aside for programs. The Symposium Coordinator was responsible for all the expenses which consisted only of postage for writing letters, and long-distance phone calls. Hand written journals noted the attendees.
Staying at the Madonna Inn for $12.00 per person was a pivotal changing point for Symposium attendees. The admission for symposium was $25.00. At the conclusion of “Final Night”, now known as the Leadership Gala, monies were distributed to the designers for travel, props and vendors supplies.
Gordon Schmuhl AIFD LIFE said, “There was alot of hard work, and many hours, but I know it was well worth the effort and was rewarding after all was said and done. Glad to have had the chance to do the job.”
Gordon Schmuhl AIFD LIFE has been living in Maui for the last twenty years. Gordon is an accomplished artist! He is currently on the Board of Directors at the Lahaina Art Society. His longtime Partner was Kirk Kirkpatrick AIFD, our President 1972-1973. Many thanks Gordon Schmuhl for the great memories and helping create this article for all our membership to enjoy.
