Individual Artist Fellowship in Craft Recipient: Raymond DeMeo

By Krishna Adams, Director of Visual Arts, Craft, Media, and Design –

Raymond DeMeo, a renowned luthier and musician, has been awarded an Individual Artist Fellowship (IAF) in Craft by the Tennessee Arts Commission. This recognition highlights his significant contributions to the arts community and his commitment to sharing his knowledge. IAFs are awarded annually to recognize and acknowledge outstanding professional artists living and working in Tennessee who, through their work, add to the state’s cultural vitality.

For over 50 years DeMeo has been making and repairing instruments including building approximately 90 instruments from scratch. Some of those arched and flat top instruments include violins, violas, guitars, bass, fiddles, and mandolins.

DeMeo’s path to becoming a luthier began with a simple fascination during a visit to the Field Museum in Chicago and saw an exhibition of ancient instruments. Armed with woodworking skills, a library card, and a borrowed toolbox, he embarked on a personal project at a young age that would shape his future. His success in building his first violin at 15 defied the notion that luthiery was a closed profession. This self-taught approach demonstrated that becoming a skilled luthier wasn’t exclusive to those with a family tradition.

DeMeo learned instrument making from master violin maker, Lisbeth Nelson Butler, instructor at Minnesota State College-Southeast in Red Wing. She wanted him to learn multiple skills, so Butler sent him on to mentor under two additional master violin makers. On average, it takes a luthier 250 hours to make a violin.

In addition to his exceptional craftsmanship, DeMeo is committed to nurturing the next generation of luthiers. Through apprenticeships and mentorship, he helps to sustain the art of handmade stringed instrument making. Teaching others not only benefits the field but also keeps him connected to his own practice. When talking about teaching, DeMeo said, “When you teach the steps in instrument making and share your solutions, it makes you a stronger artist and person. You have to have a passion for what you are doing.” Amanda Ewing, a CSET NP student has been one of DeMeo’s apprentices for the past few years. Quickly coming into her own designing and making violins, Ewing is the first African American female in the United States to become a luthier. To learn more about their remarkable journey, click here.

“As a sounding board, he offered experience, perspective, and encouragement, while also fostering independence and self-confidence. Overall, what I learned from DeMeo was an invaluable gift, and I am grateful to have his continued support today.” – Ewing

With the support of the Individual Artist Fellowship, DeMeo aims to expand his workshop by purchasing additional tools and wood for his current project, an upright double bass. DeMeo said, “Receiving the award feels good. Even if it did not come with funds, it acknowledges my skills and affirms that I’m doing something worthwhile.”