CraftBoston

We recently had the pleasure of attending CraftBoston at the World Trade Center in Boston, MA. Produced by the Society of Arts and Crafts, America’s oldest non-profit craft organization incorporated in 1897, CraftBoston is a premiere New England exhibition and sale of one-of-a-kind contemporary crafts from 175 artists from all over the world. There wasn’t a crocheted i-pod case or handmade greeting card to be found, this was truly an upscale haven for exploring unique wares that you will not spot in your typical gift emporium.
Part museum, part retail space, this was my first time visiting CraftBoston so I wasn’t sure what to expect until I started exploring the many booths and chatting with the volunteers and artists. We met artists from as far away as Denmark to Boston and New Hampshire locals. On the surface, the show was very laid back and ho-hum. Not a lot of buzz in the air, very reserved. However, once we took the time to linger at the various booths, speaking with the talents behind the splendid wares, the learning process, followed by immense appreciation, took hold of us and the show really came alive. When visiting a small show like this, I highly suggest walking the entire floor first to get an overview of everything that is out there. There are two advantages of gaining a brief birds eye perspective. First, since this particular show is a cash and carry event, meaning that you can purchase items and leave the show with them (unlike most gift shows), you want to make sure you see everything before making a purchase. The next advantage, at least to me, is that once you see everything, you know exactly which booths you want to spend time in, meeting the artist and learning more about their inspiration and processes. Always approach a show with a plan of action, that way, you won’t leave frustrated and exhausted, rather refreshed and inspired instead.
During our visit to CraftBoston, I hand-picked a few of my favorite artists and designers listed with links below.

• Lotte Kjaer – Fiber Wearable Booth #221 – Her whimsical collection of handmade shawls, hats, scarves, jackets and ponchos are one-of-a-kind and unique, tactile and lovely.  Fresh from the beautiful countryside of Holstebr, Denmark.
• Hanne Linding – Fiber Wearable Booth #218 – Gorgeous felted knitwear that you just want to cuddle with and touch. Wrist warmers, handbags, shawls, skirts, scarves, jackets and ponchos, all handmade in Denmark.
• Rob Sutherland – Ceramics Booth #241 – Ceramic cups, bowls, jars and vases with an Asian contemporary feel. Handmade in Philadelphia, PA.
• Penelope Wurr – Glass Booth # 400 – Fine contemporary glass and an eclectic array of interior furnishings made in Putney, Vermont.
• Laura Zindel – Ceramics Booth #505 – Unique handmade earthenware glazed and adorned with images of leaves, insects, animals and other natural forms. Crafted in Vermont.

Outside of the World Trade Center, Boston

Visit Holly’s design blog, decor8, at http://www.decor8.blogspot.com
(all images copyright decor8 2006. please request permission before use.)