Allen Whittington
Furniture

In 1972, while on summer break from college, I found a chair that belonged to my great-great-grandfather. It was broken and badly in need of a new seat. Determined to fix the chair and with my mothers help, I began to research the various types and styles of weaving so that I could match the pattern currently on the chair. Family and career slowed my participation in what had become a family caning business, but I couldn’t resist the pull of the cane and never stopped. In recent years, I have made time for caning again and have had the pleasure of seeing and repairing all kinds of furniture and other items, from beautiful chairs with canes sunburst backs, herringbone porch rockers, sofas, chaises, and even canoe seats. I have loved meeting clients who have traveled from far to bring me their unique pieces, as well as traveling to Jackson, MS and the surrounding areas to pick up others.

Gary Schlegel
Wood, Furniture

I build custom cabinetry and furniture, with an emphasis on Windsor Chairs, using the same chair building methods that have been in use for over 200 years. Seats are hand carved from a solid slab of pine. Maple logs are split for legs, bent backs and spindles from green oak logs. All shaped with hand tools, steamed and formed. The final step is a hand rubbed milk paint finish.

I have lived in South Louisiana for 40+ years, practicing woodworking for 35 plus years. I attended several woodworking schools and seminars around the country and learned the craft of Windsor Chair building from Curtis Buchanan and Elia Bizzarri, two of the best in the country.

Matthew Latiolais
Wood & Furniture

Matthew Latiolais, from Lafayette, Louisiana, is a master craftsman known for his exquisite wood and metal creations. His journey began early, with a passion for woodworking and metal fabrication.

Education and Expertise
• Degree in Industrial Technology from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
• Minor in Business, enhancing his entrepreneurial skills.
• Graduate of the Louisiana Contractors Institute, knowledgeable in construction techniques and project management.

Artistry and Craftsmanship
• Matthew’s work blends natural wood textures with industrial metal aesthetics.
• His pieces, from custom furniture to forged iron gates, showcase meticulous attention to detail and artistic flair.

Community Involvement
• Active member of the Louisiana Crafts Guild.
• Regular participant at the Lafayette Farmers and Artisan Market, engaging with the local community.

Greg Arceneaux
Furniture

I, Greg Arceneaux, as an artist and craftsman wish to impact people’s life on a daily basis with my work, a combination of beauty and utility. Also I wish to utilize indigenous materials in a creative way. I try to connect the past, present and future through the use of the decorative arts. I try to celebrate Louisiana’s unique heritage.

Through my research I realized that Louisiana’s heritage was rapidly disappearing. Only a few original furnishing examples still exist. Creole and Acadian styles are some of the most unique yet most overlooked forms of antiquity in the decorative arts. These particular designs have not been produced in 150-300 years.

I am dedicated to the continuation of the legacy this craft creates. I find gratification in creating three dimensional functional objects. On this path I hope to share, preserve and perpetuate the Louisiana heritage and create appreciation for diversity in our greater culture.