is often determined
by his or her knowledge of their materials, whether
it be white oak, sweetgrass or river cane; while carvers,
boatbuilders and luthiers may choose wood according
to the potential for artistic inspiration — its
grain, color or texture — or local availability.
Contemporary craft artists recognize how the
Southern landscape and the imprint of “place”
have a profound effect on their lives. At the
same time they often connect to an international community
of makers. The Internet, travel, education, and professional
associations make their sense of community broad and
deep, but not bounded by geography. Many were drawn
to the South to teach or study and have stayed because
of the rich cultural, educational and natural environment.
Others grew up in the South. Still others live in Florida,
which they view ironically as the “deep North.”
In general, the contemporary work in this exhibition
reaches across time and geography, expressing a keen
sense of respect and value for the cultures of others.
Freedom to work where they like, learning opportunities,
and the desire to live among communities of artists
have had a strong influence on the evolving landscape
of Southern contemporary craftspeople.
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