Vaillancourt Folk Art

Co-founder Judi Vaillancourt is credited with having developed the process used to create the first contemporary use of chalkware, using a plaster-like substance with confectionery moulds.

In 2007, following a relocation, the name was shortened to Vaillancourt Folk Art, and the company re-focused on their branded chalkware and ornament collections.

Judi, a classical illustrator, first poured these molds with chocolate, and later with beeswax,[5] before developing a process to create solid chalkware figures.

[8] In 1985, Gary left his position as President of Mitchell Management Systems to join Judi as they started what is now known as Vaillancourt Folk Art.

[16] In 2010, Vaillancourt Folk Art was nominated to be the official Christmas ornament and collectibles maker of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

[17] In 2015, Vaillancourt Folk Art introduced a Dickens-themed glass ornament line: the A Christmas Carol collection.

In 1991, the Starlight Children's Foundation made a presentation to the major gift companies of America, including Vaillancourt Folk Art.

As of 2009, Vaillancourt Folk Art has granted 104 wishes and purchased 15 Fun Centers[34] for pediatric hospitals in New England.

[35][36] In 1992, Gary Vaillancourt worked with the Worcester County Convention & Visitors Bureau (WCCVB) to create the "Chain of Lights", which was a multi-town program where local businesses would coordinate efforts to promote their services.

Judi and Gary Vaillancourt unveiled the Abraham Lincoln piece, along with a Civil War Santa, on September 4, 2010, at the Gettysburg NMP Bookstore[41][42] after being asked by the museums to create commemorative figures based on the drawings of 1860s artist Thomas Nast.

[48][49] In 1991, soap opera star Emma Samms and TV personality Tom Bergeron made their first appearance to the Vaillancourt studios.