The Blue Guitar
The Blue Guitar Collection
The Blue Guitar Collection is a unique ensemble of custom-made, blue-colored guitars commissioned by the late Scott Chinery, an avid guitar collector. Inspired by a striking blue archtop guitar built by luthier Jimmy D’Aquisto, Chinery invited some of the world's most renowned luthiers to create their own interpretations of a blue guitar. The collection, completed in the mid-1990s, features exquisite craftsmanship from builders such as Robert Benedetto, John Monteleone, and Tom Ribbecke. It stands as a tribute to fine guitar-making and artistic expression, showcasing a blend of traditional luthiery and modern innovation.
The Wilkie Reputation
Wyatt Wilkie is known for his exceptional handcrafted archtop guitars and mandolins. With a background in fine woodworking and instrument repair, Wilkie honed his skills under the mentorship of renowned luthier Robert Benedetto before establishing his own workshop. Wilkie's guitars are celebrated for their impeccable craftsmanship, tonal richness, and elegant aesthetics, making them sought after by musicians and collectors alike. Wilkie’s dedication to traditional luthiery techniques, combined with innovative design elements, has earned him a reputation as one of the premier contemporary archtop guitar builders.
The Wilkie Contribution
Wyatt Wilkie’s contribution to the Blue Guitar Collection is a stunning archtop guitar that showcases his exceptional craftsmanship and artistic vision. Inspired by the classic jazz archtop tradition, Wilkie’s blue guitar features elegant curves, intricate binding, and a meticulously carved top and back, resulting in a rich, resonant tone. His use of premium tonewoods, combined with a striking blue finish, gives the instrument both visual and sonic brilliance. As a former apprentice of Robert Benedetto, Wilkie infused his guitar with masterful design and refined acoustics, making it a standout piece in Scott Chinery’s legendary collection.
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Look
Wyatt Wilkie hand-builds around a dozen archtop guitars and mandolins per year in his small workshop on the coast of Vancouver Island where he has lived for several years with his wife, Emily, and two children, Jasper and Linnea. He considers himself lucky to have finally arrived at such a beautiful place to live and work after a lengthy and unpredictable journey.
