Artisan
William C. Shotwell is a native Chicagoan who was raised in a family that holds art and design in a high esteem. Will, as he is called by most, first discovered his outlet for creativity at a very young age through fine arts such as drawing and painting. In 2009, Will became increasingly interested in fashion, specifically menswear, and began to channel his renderings to include draft-like interpretations of messenger style bags and wallets. These detailed mock ups soon turned into patterns and ultimately into prototypes.
In 2012, Will's interest in hand made leather goods lead him to attend the highly acclaimed fine arts school, Accademia Riaci in the heart of Florence, Italy. While there, Will was able to further fine tune his craft through disciplined instruction by some of the greatest leather artisans in the region. He currently works out of his rustic inspired workshop in Chicago's Bridgeport neighborhood.