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The term Crafts suggests a number of
things to each of us. We think of heritage crafts,
those items that people have been refining for hundreds of
years. We think of contemporary crafts, objects that
speak of today, sometimes using traditional techniques and
materials recently provided by industry. Or, we may think of
home crafts, items people make for their own
satisfaction, but do not produce for sale. For example, the
exhibitors at Inland Crafts may lean either toward
traditional techniques and materials or toward the most
contemporary materials and design. All the exhibitors are
professional artists, committed to presenting work that is
well-made, unique, and is a genuine personal expression.
In the craft world, in all three categories, heritage,
contemporary, and home, there are certainly varying levels
of quality. We suggest that you can develop your eye for
quality by talking with artists about their work. If you
understand the methods and materials used, you can better
appreciate the crafts you buy. If you understand how to best
live with it, you can expect a long and loving relationship
with it. Here is a list of questions you can ask the artist:
1.) How has the artist's
design evolved and what were his or her intentions when they
made their items?
2.) How long did it take to make the items?
3.) How long did it take to develop a certain technique?
4.) Why does the artist think a specific item is successful?
5.) Is the item a one-of-kind or are there similar items?
6.) How do you wear or display the items successfully?
7.) How do you clean the items or use it safely?
Learn about quality by
looking at a lot of crafts; visit galleries, museums, fairs
and festivals that feature fine arts. Place your name on the
artist and exhibition mailing lists. Make an appointment to
visit an artist's studio. Be assured that the more you look,
the easier it is to choose, and the more you look, the more
confidence you will have in the impulsive factor in making
your decision to purchase. Use these four criteria as guides
to your purchases:
1.) Good workmanship.
2.) Excellence and originality in design.
3.) The credentials of the artist.
4.) The "I really like it, it feels good to me" factor.
You may choose to have
work custom designed; many crafts makers are happy to create
a piece that will coordinate with your existing furnishings
or wardrobe.
Finally remember that the
craft item you purchase is an investment in personal
pleasure, treat yourself.
- Related Information
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How you can get
the most out of a craft exhibition!
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