The American Craft Council Library holds tens of thousands of volumes, nearly 600 linear feet of processed archival materials, and thousands of artist files. But did you know the library also holds an object collection? Here are a few examples of the extraordinary vessels we have on hand. Nearly all of the objects are ceramic, and most were gifts from the artists to the American Craft Museum, which subsequently donated them to the ACC. Many were displayed in the ACC offices and library while the organization was located in New York City. When the ACC made the move to Minneapolis, the objects came along and have been on display in the library ever since. Anyone who comes to visit the library in person can see these beautiful objects up close.
Vessels of the ACC Library Collection
The Crafty Librarian shares some of the pieces in ACC’s object collection.
By Beth Goodrich
May 10, 2024
Toshiko Takaezu, Moon Pots, 8.5 inches high (large), 4.5 inches high (medium), 3.5 inches high (small). Gift to Aileen Osborn Webb as chairperson of the World Crafts Council. On extended loan from the World Crafts Council.
-
Photo courtesy of the American Craft Council Library & ArchivesArtus Van Briggle, vase with double handles, ceramic, glaze, wheel-thrown, 13.5 x 6.75 x 4.75 in. Donated to the American Craft Council by the American Craft Museum, 1990.
-
Photo courtesy of the American Craft Council Library & ArchivesMike Ball, face jug, 7 x 6 x 5.5 in. Ball made this piece in the tradition of face jug pottery made by enslaved African Americans in the 19th century. Donated by Alexander Haas to the American Craft Council.
-
Photo courtesy of the American Craft Council Library & ArchivesDaniel Rhodes, Vase, 1964, earthenware, slip, wheel-thrown, altered, hand-built, 10 x 7 x 4 in. Gift of the artist, 1967. Donated to the American Craft Council by the American Craft Museum, 1990.
Beth Goodrich, aka The Crafty Librarian, has been the American Craft Council’s librarian and archivist since 2017.
View more from the archives in the ACC Digital Collections.
Before you go!
We believe that making creates a meaningful world, and we hope you do, too. Deeply researched and impactful journalism on the craft community is in short supply. At the same time, being featured in a national publication can have a major effect on a maker’s or artist’s livelihood, particularly those who are just starting in their career. You can help support our mission and the work of makers around the country by becoming a member or by making a gift today.
Thank you!
American Craft Editors
