Genius Grant to NJ Silversmith

Orchid members,

A $500,000 MacArthur Foundation “Genius” grant was announced Tuesday,
Sept 20, for silversmith Ubaldo Vitali of Maplewood, NJ. The WSJ
article says the grant was given to 22 individuals “as an investment
in a person’s originality, insight and potential”. Ubaldo restores
historical masterworks by hand in his Maplewood, NJ studio.

The MacArthur Foundation has given 850 “genius” grants since 1981 to
allow fellows to “pursue ambitious projects and creative passions”.
Past recipients have been writers, photographers, screenwriters,
dancers and choreographers, jazz performers and composers,
researchers and others.

Mr Ubaldo is 67 years old and has restored famous works, some more
than 2,300 years old. He also has created pieces for three popes.

Best regards to Mr. Ubaldo and all metal artists.
MA