American Craft Council 2011

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the American Craft Council, and in Baltimore, we’re lucky enough to have one of the major ACC shows. Every year, around this time, the 700+ vendors come into town with their amazing wares, and I always attend the show on Friday evening. It’s generally less crowded at that time, and you can get a few minutes to speak with the artists and craftspeople who are exhibiting.

For the third year, my friend Elizabeth at The Felted Garden is coming. I have one of her rose scarves, and it’s just gorgeous. Shaari Horowitz, who was just featured on Libby Wilkie’s great blog, An Eye For Detail, will be showing her amazing painted bowls. I always love looking at the stunning jewelry at the show, and this year, I am going to make a beeline for Lush Metals (love the name!) and see her other pieces, since I like this one so much. Observatory Place is a new exhibitor this year and I love the use of colour in these ottomans. New this year are several different sections:

HANDMADE UNDER $100: A perfect category for people just starting their addiction to craft! Don’t miss out on this fabulous collection of items for $100 or less.

LAWN & GARDEN: Features artists who craft furniture and decorative accessories to compliment and withstand the fluctuations of the great outdoors.

GREEN CRAFT: As a reflection of our social responsibility to the environment, this category features artists who incorporate recycled or found materials and use eco-friendly techniques into creating their work.

ALTCRAFT:  The Council invited artists whose work illustrates the innovative techniques and materials of the burgeoning new handmade craft movement to apply to a special section of the show.  The Council is proud to present a national stage for these artists who tend to exhibit at smaller, local craft shows.

DEMO STAGE: Lively demonstrations, with topics ranging from ceramics, glass, fiber, jewelry and wood techniques, will be presented by local experts.

Tickets are available here.