2025 Community Awards Spotlight – Richard Skrobecki

Richard Skrobecki – Business Champion

Richard Skrobecki is the first ever to receive the Mississippi Mills Business Champion award since its inception in 2024.

This award celebrates inspirational local business leaders who: 

• Have set a positive example;
• Found ways to adapt and lead past survival to thriving prosperity; and 
• Who contribute to the promotion and success of the greater Mississippi Mills business community.  

In 2013, armed with a dream of owning a gallery, Richard took a risk and opened General Fine Craft in downtown Almonte.  

A ceramic artist, he understood the lure of art for daily use and the importance of showcasing regional and provincial artisans.  

With an eye to always seek out the most interesting and intriguing works, General Fine Craft has flourished under Richard’s direction, becoming a vital part of our dynamic Mill Street.  

It’s a testament to his dedication, focus and deep understanding of promoting Canadian fine craft.  

When the pandemic hit in 2020 and crushed many small businesses, Richard stepped up to ensure his artists and his business remained in the public eye through increased online promotion, which made all the difference to the makers showcased within his gallery. 

Over the past 12 years, he has curated a collection of the best fine craft across the region and provided invaluable opportunities for artists to showcase and sell their work, while giving the public a chance to learn more about fine art and fine craft. It’s clearly his true passion.  

Outside his business, Richard is a tremendous supporter of the community, whether it’s as a donor to the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum and events such as Almonte in Concert or Folkus, volunteering with the Destination Almonte Association, curating an exhibition to coincide with the Puppets Up! International Puppet Festival or serving as a mentor to other artists, his generosity is an inspiration to many. 

Here is what Richard’s nominators had to say about him: 

“Richard’s enthusiasm, knowledge and unwavering support for his makers inspires deep community pride. Beyond the gallery walls, Richard is an active promoter of Almonte’s vibrant cultural life. He celebrates local events, supports night markets and festivals and always has pamphlets and community newsletters on hand, keeping his finger firmly on the pulse of what’s happening in town.” 

“Richard’s love of art and his vast knowledge of fine craft, as a potter himself, along with his professionalism, have helped set a high standard of quality for fine art and fine craft in Almonte, which in turn draws a broad audience for art into town.” 

Congratulations, Richard, and thank you for your contributions to the community.