Pepe, nickname for Jose, was born Jose Ricardo Fernandez, in Punitaqui, Coquimbo, Chile. Pepe spent almost his entire childhood in southern Chile's city of Puerto Montt. As an adult, his education and fascination with mathematics directed him to a successful 14-year career with The Bank of the State of Chile in the capital city Santiago, Chile. Besides making his livelihood at the State Bank, he dedicated his spare time to a love of amateur theatre, as a qualified 'Theatre Instructor', as well as, an interest in working with his hands doing copper etching. His studio, called "Taller 'D'" (Studio 'D') in downtown Santiago, provided him the space to explore both hobbies as well as an outlet for his artistic interests. Supportive to the policies of President Salvador Allende, Pepe's life was put at risk with the overthrow of Allende by a military coup in 1973. At aged 34, he and his family were forced into exile. An economically comfortable and artistically stimulating lifestyle was instantly destroyed. And a difficult series of changes, struggles and challenges lay ahead. As a refugee first to Mexico, Pepe utilized his experience & knowledge of copper etching to assume a position teaching metal work at a community service institute in Mexico City. In the following year, 1974, Canada granted political asylum to Pepe and his family. Another move but more difficult cultural adjustments began. Without English, employment possibilities in banking dissolved. But again, creative and skilled hand-work in metal opened the door for an opportunity to survive and seek self-fulfillment. Pepe's life has been a complex story of self-discovery and challenge….at times very difficult, but then at the same time, a very creative journey. Pepe's struggle to survive as a craftsman in Canada led to the establishment of his own business, with partner, Maureen Dwyer, in 1975. For the story of Pepe & Maureen Ltd., search "BUSINESS HISTORY" and discover more!