John S. Kinnard, Kinnard Ukes

Nestled in the foothills of northern San Diego County just inland from the coast, sits the small village of Fallbrook, California. Known for its mild climate and laid back lifestyles, artisans of different genres cultivate their craft inspired by the beauty of the valleys and mountains that surround the town. John has been building guitars, mandolins and ukuleles in a career that has spanned more than 45 years. He is the luthier behind the Dell'Arte brand of gypsy style guitars played around the world. 

Like many artists, his creativity spills over into other mediums including oil and watercolor painting and also jewelry making, talents that have served him well in making him the luthier he is today. From painting he developed an eye for proportion and style. From designing and making jewelry it trained him to look for the smallest flaws and build with an attention to detail that has become the hallmark of his work as a luthier. When people talk about the construction of his instruments the one word you hear more than any other is the word "clean". 

John's website is http://www.kinnardukes.com.