View Exhibition Gallery

For centuries craftspeople have been using their talents to contribute to the quality of daily life. They put dishes on tables, clothing on backs, windows in houses, and tools in the hands of workers. Along the way, by creating utilitarian products, they have been lost as artists. In the world of art there is often an under appreciation for the field of craft, works whose intentions are for use and not for pure expression, emotion, or statement. But how can one disclaim the artistic qualities of the stained glass windows of Chartres Cathedral, the Greek pottery of Exekias, the stitching in a Victorian Crazy Quilt or the Iron gates of Versailles. In a world today where art breaks all boundaries and explores unthinkable realms, the craftsperson is finally settling in as a true artist.

The VanGo! exhibit The Fine Art of Craft will show a group of artists who are using age-old mediums and methods to create contemporary works of art that reflect color, texture, emotion and expression, exploring abstract ideas or subject matter beyond function. The content of their work is exposed directly through the materials and techniques employed. The role of craft here is process, work admired simply for craftsmanship and design.

To fully understand and appreciate these works of art, The Fine Art of Craft will also explore the history of the materials used. With each piece of contemporary craft there will be a reference to how that material functioned in early American History.

Students will appreciate and understand how today’s artists are drawn to these craft materials and continually try to manipulate them in new ways. This exhibit will give a vision of art beyond painting and sculpture. Students of all ages will be drawn to the work by color, texture and shape or by process and content.

The Fine Art of Craft exhibit will be a diverse show of relief and 3-dimensional original works of art that will instantly appeal to our senses. This show will put emphasis on process, technique and material. It will link our present to our past and expose the viewer to the endless possibilities in art. Students will learn

The History of these materials

• Tapestries, Clothing, Quilts…Fibers
• Pottery and Mosaics…Ceramics
• Tools and Armor…Metals
• Furniture and Houses…Wood

Under State Standards of History, students will learn chronological thinking, historical comprehension, historical interpretation, contributions of individuals and groups, and influences of continuity and change.

The Science of their Production

• Fiber: wool and spinning
• Clay: digging, firing, glazing
• Metals: enameling, extrusion, soldering

Under State Standards of Science, students will learn problem solving in technology, manufacturing under physical technologies, technological devices such as tools, and instruments and meeting human needs under Science, Technology and Human Endeavors.

Critical and Aesthetic Response, Production and Process, and Cultural Contexts

Teachers will appreciate the diversity in materials and styles. They will be able to incorporate the work into their curriculum based upon the history behind the materials presented and their impact on our civilization.

Top