​Congratulations, Wendell Castle for receiving the Eric M. Wunsch Award for Excellence in the American Arts from the Wunsch Americana Foundation (WAF). What a brilliant choice. I cannot think of anyone who represents the sprit of American craft and design, its innovation, originality, and excellence, more than Castle, whose presence in the world of design has been constant for nearly six decades. This unique Foundation, itself fresh and intriguing addition to the design world, was created by Peter Wunsch and his dynamic sons Eric and Noah in preserving the legacy and collection of their father/grandfather legendary collector Martin Wunsch. The Foundation is devoted to preservation, education, and investment in Americana, with lending, sharing, and gifting to institutions throughout the country. The Award, which was created in 2012, comes to acknowledge outstanding achievements in support of the American decorative arts. Castle, often called the Dean of American Design, has been one of the most beloved figures in world of American design, is the perfect candidate for the Award.