An exhibition in 1949 organized by Alexander Girard at the Detroit Institute of Arts would inspire Jerome and Evelyn Ackerman to devote a life and career in design. Jerome specialized in ceramics while Evelyn in textile, the two would eventually move to Los Angeles to open Jenev Design Studio, the launching pad to a long and successful career as skilled craftsmen and designers. Their work quickly gained recognition commercially and artistically, exhibiting works at the prestigious “California Design” series and was sold through Paul McCobb’s Directional Showroom. The company would eventually become ERA Industries and expanded their offering to include tapestries, jewelry, wood, metal, and mosaic home accessories and architectural elements. The Ackermans’ success would lead the couple to work with artisans from around the world, including skilled craftsmen in Greece, Italy, Japan, Kashmir, and Mexico. An exhibition on the Ackermans that span more than 50 years is on view at the Craft and Folk Art Museum in Los Angeles. Learn more about the couple’s life and work on their site.