Browse, Shop, Learn
This year, there’s even more to experience at ACC shows. For the 2012 season, the Council has dramatically expanded show programming.

In February, the Baltimore show kicked off with a new day of learning and networking for wholesale buyers and artists, including talks on crafting a compelling narrative and retailing in today’s economy. The day finished at a reception with Bryan Batt, interior designer, author of Big, Easy Style, and Mad Men cast member. There were exciting events during the retail show, too, including a lecture by Michael Petry, artist, curator, and author of the provocative The Art of Not Making, and a conversation with artists Sonya Clark and Joyce Scott. There was plenty of inspiration too, from local “Style Makers,” recruited by the Council, who demonstrated just how chic the handmade lifestyle can be.

Down in Atlanta in March, the new open-studio space on the show floor gave craft lovers an opportunity to observe and interact with makers during craft demos, including artists from the Georgia Association of Woodturners, Atlanta Art Worx Jewelry and Metal Arts Studio, Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, Southeast Fiber Arts Alliance, and Siyeh Glass.

Next up is the St. Paul show April 20–22.

A New Digital Experience
American Craft is published by the American Craft Council, and if you’ve visited this site lately, you’ve seen a striking change. With member feedback and support, the ACC has launched a powerful, interactive new website that for the first time brings the organization’s many facets under one digital umbrella.

“The new website connects the dots between everything we do,” ACC interactive media specialist Elizabeth Ryan says.

At this one-stop site for all things craft, you can read blogs and content from this magazine, browse ACC Library holdings and view its Digital Collections, find out all about ACC shows, and keep tabs on craft events across the country. The website is designed to provide information quickly and easily, as a primary way to interact with the greater craft community.

Andrew Zoellner is American Craft’s assistant editor.