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Charley Wheelock
founder/chocolate maker for Woodblock Chocolate
Professional Background
Charley Wheelock has a vibrant and eclectic background in industrial design and furniture making that began in the bustling streets of New York City in the late 1970s. His entrepreneurial journey started with selling handmade knife holders crafted from discarded wooden fruit crates, repurposing them into unique and functional decorative pieces. This early innovative spirit set the stage for a long and fruitful career in design.
Following his roots in selling innovative products, Charley transitioned into the realm of furniture after graduating from college, seeking to acquire skills that would enable him to create meaningful designs applicable in various settings. To hone his craft, he apprenticed at Santo Spirito Restoration in Brooklyn, where he learned the intricacies of restoration techniques that preserve historical pieces. After a year of dedicated work, he advanced his career at Carlton House Restoration, focusing on conservation of exquisite 18th and 19th Century furniture from France and England. This experience illuminated the significance of artistry in furniture design, solidifying his understanding of craftsmanship.
Charley’s commitment to advancing his education in design led him to Pratt Institute, where he earned his master's degree in industrial design. His thesis work concentrated on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing computer furniture for children, igniting a passion for designing solutions that cater to young users’ needs.
After completing his education at Pratt, Charley founded Kapow Design to explore the potential of children's computer furniture further. While the initial focus shifted as opportunities arose, he became renowned for designing and fabricating custom furniture pieces out of his studio located in Long Island City, New York. Charley's abilities as a designer and craftsman allowed him to create one-of-a-kind work that marries form and function seamlessly.
Education and Achievements
Charley's academic journey armed him with both theoretical and practical knowledge crucial to his endeavors in industrial design. He pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of Vermont, where he earned a BA in English/Environmental Studies. This interdisciplinary background provided him with a well-rounded perspective on environmental and aesthetic considerations necessary in design work.
At Pratt Institute, Charley continued to develop as a designer, earning his master's degree in industrial design. This education was transformative, as it equipped him with advanced techniques and knowledge while allowing him to delve into innovative design methodologies. His thesis on children's computer furniture demonstrates his forward-thinking approach and commitment to addressing the needs of future generations through thoughtful design.
Notable Ventures
In addition to his work as a furniture designer, Charley is also the Founder and Chocolate Maker at Woodblock Chocolate, where he marries his passions for design and culinary arts to craft artisanal chocolate products. This venture reflects his ability to blend creativity with craftsmanship across multiple domains.
Previously, Charley showcased his broad skill set as a Roaming Marketing Designer at Birdseye Building Co, where he contributed his design expertise to marketing initiatives, further expanding his professional versatility. He was also recognized as a student at Kapow Design, participating in the learning and growth of the design community.
Legacy and Impact
Charley Wheelock’s journey through industrial design reflects an admirable commitment to creativity, sustainability, and craftsmanship. His diverse experiences, from selling handmade creations to restoring antiquities and creating functional furniture, underscore an influential career built on innovation and dedication. As he continues to explore new ventures, including the chocolate industry, Charley remains a testament to the boundless avenues of creativity that can be pursued through design. His work inspires both emerging designers and established professionals alike, ensuring a rich legacy in the intersection of art and utility.
