For the past several years I have had the privilege of being employed by Bill Berry at Bill’s Art Store in Uptown Oxford, Ohio. It is with deepest regrets that I tell the art world that he passed away last quite unexpectedly two weeks ago. We really have lost an amazing man, and an amazing artist.
I can remember visiting Miami and visiting Bill’s Art Store for the first time. As my parents and I left, I remember telling them that someday I was going to work there. Sure enough, after a semester of stopping in to the store frequently to chat or ask questions, Bill called my up and offered me a job. I graciously accepted.
The store was small, and the rules for working there were simple.
1. Use common sense. Don’t leave anything dangerous out.
2. Don’t be an asshole. (really)
3. Solve the problem the customer came in with. Bill figured that upselling only annoyed people. We of course wanted to make a profit, but we valued our customers much more than the dollar amount at the end of the day.
4. Don’t be late. But if you are, no more than 10 minutes.
I will carry these principles with me always. I will always remember the type of friend, boss, and mentor Bill was to me. I can only carry on his lessons and honor his memory. I will miss my mentor. I loved him a great deal and will never forget him.
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