Click on the picture of the broom to view a larger image.

The following is Ralph's dedication of his gallery show at the Folk Art Center in 2000

DEDICATION

Crossing The Line

Whatever the line, whether the school yard line scuffed
out by the bully's toe, the line between countries, or the
often changing line between sanity and eccentricity,
there always seems to be repercussions in its crossing.

In the case of the line between craft and
art, the results are always joyful.

With a great deal of pride and a sense of wonder,
this exhibit escorts the venerable craft of
broommaking into the realm of art.

This exhibit would not have been possible without Marlow,
my son, partner and friend.  He relieved me of my duties
in our production business, Friendswood Brooms,
thus allowing me to bring my mental images
into the physical.  He also often lent me his
physical strength when mine faltered.

Therefore I dedicate this exhibit to Marlow Gates
and to the bright future he brings to old craft and new art.

RALPH GATES
Master Broommaker