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In Review
Craft in America
Reviewed By L'Tanya Durante

“Art is history; craft is our story.”
Carol Sauvion, Executive Director
Craft in America

I had the fortunate opportunity to view Episode II of Craft in America, a 3-part PBS series that explores the pure joy, value and importance of craftsmanship. This second episode, entitled Landscape, focuses on the relationship between the artists and their physical environment; the way in which craft draws inspiration from the landscape; and just how inexhaustible that inspiration is.

In each of the three episodes – Memory, Landscape, and Community – we get an intimate portrait of artists – from the basket weaver who is committed to carrying on her family’s tradition to the a potter who makes teapots that make a stand for peace.

As you watch furniture, ceramics, fiber and textiles, glass, wood, jewelry and metal artists at work, what draws you in has more to do with the inspiration behind the work and less and less to do with the medium. One artist expressed it best by saying that making things with your hands is the best and purest value; that there is power in the tactile qualities of creating.

The premiere of Craft in America begins on PBS, Wednesday, May 30. Episode I airs at 8 pm, Episode II at 9 pm and Episode II airs at 10 pm ET/PT.

Episode I – Memory -- juxtaposes the intimate stories of some of our country’s most prominent craft artists against the larger historical context of craft itself.

Episode II – Landscape – looks at the processes through which natural materials become finished works of craft, and what deeper messages may be contained therein.

Episode III – Community – focuses on the spiritual connection artists have to their communities through craft making.

Craft in America, featuring the PBS series, a seven-city nationally traveling museum exhibition, a website, DVD, and a "lavishly illustrated" book is a complete experience. According to Craft in America’s Executive Director Carol Sauvion, "if the public wants to learn more about well-known artists or discover those making creative break-throughs, it's there. Plus histories, tools, and techniques -- and ways to start learning a craft yourself. CraftinAmerica.org will be an unparalleled resource."

L'Tanya Durante is the Editor-in-Chief of Black Purl Magazine. She lives in Durham, NC with her husband, two sons and cat. She spends her quiet time beading, knitting, and crocheting, or reading about beading, knitting or crocheting.