Elizabethtown College roots run deep for alumnus B.R. Delaney ’04, owner of a high-end, custom wood furniture company, Fieldstone Artistry.
Delaney started his furniture and design studio in 2016 when he was first invited to exhibit at the Philadelphia Furniture Show. As a life-long woodworker, Delaney, who received his bachelor’s degree in Theatre Design and Technology at Etown, always dreamed of being able to build furniture for a living.
He built his own studio on his property in the Catskills of New York in 2013, began participating in local furniture and art shows in the fall of 2015, and made the official leap to start his business in early 2016. He specializes in locally harvested wood, which he says allows him to create pieces that stem from natural, renewable resources.
“Starting a business was the most challenging and rewarding thing I have ever done, and I am proud of what it has become,” said Delaney.
Delaney has had the opportunity to create pieces for many interesting clients. One of his most recent projects involved designing and building the desk for the Apple TV series The Problem, hosted by actor and comedian Jon Stewart.
“The team as a whole, and especially Jon, were great to work with, and they allowed me to help steer the decisions made into something that is functional, high quality, and beautiful,” said Delaney.
Delaney recently returned to campus to partake in Etown’s 2021 Homecoming and Family Weekend. He said it was great to see how campus has changed over the years and to catch up with friends, both old and new. He was even able to assist the Facilities Department, where he worked as a student, to help students build floats for the Homecoming Parade. He also volunteered to provide a trailer and a vehicle to tow the Sock & Buskin theatre club float.
“If I can help facilitate Etown’s mission and assist current students, I feel an obligation to give back,” said Delaney. “It also provides a great opportunity to connect and work alongside other alumni and build that community as an additional support staff for the College.”
Delaney credits the education he received at Etown with the success he’s achieved throughout his career.
“Elizabethtown and many of its faculty and staff helped shape who I am today,” said Delaney. “Without the one-on-one tutelage and support of the College community, I wouldn’t have had the successes that I enjoy on a daily basis. In every part of my career, from my graduate work to my work as an entertainment industry professional and business owner, I have relied on the knowledge and experiences that Etown afforded me.”
Delaney is currently in the process of moving his shop and residence to southern Vermont, where he will operate a 4,000 square foot professional shop.
