The Porcupine's Quill

Hi Tim, So, I’m having a solitary late lunch in the bar at The Old Mill in Toronto, after beating the drum for Ryerson at the Mags U trade fair, and what do I see on a credenza near the bar than a small stack of DA 56. I pick up a copy to treat myself and find a fine piece on Frank Newfeld (before Alligator Pie, when he really was a magical designer) and a poem about Richard Outram, who I knew slightly, years ago, at CBC, as a long-time off-camera studio guy — props? I think so. And then something by you, titled Dingbats, Ornaments and Fancy Initials. I start reading and am charmed to learn about the barn and the Bunyans and your very smart treatment of your dad, then the fact that you’re putting the things online as downloadable shareware. Terrific, I think. I’ve got to tell a couple of designer friends, who will be tickled to have these things available.

And then I hit the last paragraph. a) I don’t remember us ever talking about those dingbats, etc. specifically, but turning them into shareware was exactly the kind of thing I meant. Good for you for picking up the idea and running with it in that direction. b) You’re very kind. Nobody ever thanks consultants publicly like that. Finding that credit was a total surprise and delight. You are completely welcome — and now on my browser list of `Favourites’. Warmest regards to all there, — Charles Oberdorf

Find the DA dingbats (and the story) here.