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Pepe's
Homestead, |
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!
Please
click on any image to view enlargements.
