Architectural Ornamental Metal Art Initiative

The AOMAI provides a vehicle by which Master Craftsman Carl A. Nielbock is able to juxtapose his unique set of knowledge and skills with an urban atmosphere and style that welcomes metropolitan Detroit residents interested in learning the skill of Ornamental Metal handcrafting. Simultaneously, AOMAI apprentices receive high quality education, hands-on training and impressive portfolios that can become vehicles for furthering the individual apprentice's career and/or goals for achieving higher education.

The Architectural Ornamental Metal Art Initiative is a platform to encourage the preservation, refinement and value of metropolitan Detroit's -- and our nation's -- ornamental handcrafting legacy. Currently there is a shortage of well-trained skilled artisans familiar with ornamental hand crafting, even though skilled craftspeople used the very techniques taught through AOMAI to build some of America's most treasured landmarks.

With the success of the Hurlburt Gate Restoration project, the City of Detroit granted Mr. Nielbock use of three buildings at Historic Fort Wayne to establish his Architectural Ornamental Metal Art Initiative. Skilled artisans used authentic equipment and facilities to create the Hurlburt Gate Restoration project and present it to the greater public.

Today it is the goal of AOMAI to preserve the ancient skill that built the many monuments beautifying our nation. Old World artisans, who have long since left the country or passed on, created these monuments. Priceless relics represent more than just beauty and embellishments. They represent the spirit of the cities and metropolitan areas in which they stand; they represent the collective spirit of these locations' residents.

Carl A. Nielbock has worked diligently to pass down the exceptionally high standards of the Old World masters to his apprentices. AOMAI trainees have assisted in preserving parts of their city's history through the task of restoring its monuments to their original luster. They have expressed pride not only in the fact that they were able to accomplish such amazing results, but also in the fact that they played a significant role in the beautification of their city.