Announcing American Craft Connects: ACC Conference & Awards 2026
Making matters. Now, more than ever.
April 24, 2026
Minneapolis, MN – The American Craft Council is pleased to announce American Craft Connects: ACC Conference & Awards 2026, taking place September 4–6, 2026, at the University of Minnesota McNamara Alumni Center in Minneapolis, MN.
Explore the ideas, trends, forces, and movements shaping the future of American craft at the country’s premier convening of craft field leaders, makers, and enthusiasts. Examine how the artful work of the human hand builds connection, shapes culture, fosters community, and grows today’s economy across a weekend of engaging panels and conversations featuring industry luminaries and extraordinary makers.
Featured panels and talks include:
- Craft Education: Why It Matters and How to Protect It
Panel by Appalachian Center for Craft, Museum of Fine Arts-Boston, Berea CollegeA timely panel with Appalachian Center for Craft, Museum of Fine Arts Boston, and Berea College examines the growing crisis in craft education and how hands-on learning may be a viable path forward. - State Fairs: Growing American Craft
Lecture by Mary Savig, The Fleur and Charles Bresler Curator-in-Charge at the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art MuseumMary Savig, the Curator-in-Charge at the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum explores how state fairs have served as vibrant platforms for artists to share personal stories and reflect on American life and culture. - So You Want to Write a Craft Book?
Lecture by Kaylee Schofield, Schiffer Publishing Craft Senior Acquisitions EditorSchiffer Publishing gives a practical talk about the path from idea to published craft book, offering insider guidance on shaping a strong concept, building a compelling proposal, and pitching to a publisher. - Craft For a Greater Good: Making a Difference Through Collaboration and Community.
Panel discussion by The Furniture SocietyThe Furniture Society explores how collaborative, community-based craft initiatives can extend beyond the studio to address real-world challenges and build stronger, more connected communities.
Additional panels and speakers to be announced.
Additionally, attendees can celebrate the legacy and future of American craft at the awards reception honoring the 2026 American Craft Council Biennial Award recipients. Held on Friday, September 4, 2026, at the iconic Weisman Art Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, this special evening offers after-hours access to the museum, an awards ceremony, the opportunity to meet the honorees, and a reception with light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. Since 1970, the ACC Awards have recognized individuals and organizations whose work as artists, educators, mentors, curators, scholars, and advocates has shaped and strengthened the field of craft.
The Awards will recognize exceptional contributions to contemporary craft by:
Gold Medalists:
Sonya Clark
Consuelo Jimenez Underwood
Honorary Fellows:
Jean McLaughlin
Namita Gupta Wiggers
College of Fellows:
Clifton Monteith
Cristina Córdova
Donald Friedlich
DY Begay
Mildred Howard
Silas Kopf
Susan Stinsmuehlen-Amend
Vivian Beer
Winnie Owens-Hart
WHERE:
University of Minnesota McNamara Center
Please use the entrance located at:
259 Walnut St SE
Minneapolis, Minnesota
WHEN:
September 4–6, 2026
Friday, September 4, 2026 / 6 p.m. ACC Awards Ceremony
Saturday, September 5, 2026 / 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sunday, September 6, 2026 / 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
TICKETS:
Early Bird tickets go on sale on April 24th, full price on July 1st. Purchase tickets at craftcouncil.org.
ABOUT THE AMERICAN CRAFT COUNCIL:
The American Craft Council (ACC) is a national nonprofit fostering connection through the handmade. Building upon an 80+ year legacy of tradition and innovation as a membership-based nonprofit, ACC leverages the transformative possibilities of craft through storytelling, resources for artists and appreciators, and events. In partnership with organizations across the country, we mobilize our diverse craft ecosystem to create a world where objects matter, makers thrive, and craft connects. Learn more and take part at craftcouncil.org.
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For media queries, contact Sarah Cassavant at [email protected].