Tennessee Craft Week Set for 10/2-11

Traditional craft epitomizes the ultimate "DIY" mentality, which emerged as settlers moved across the state and made what they needed for everyday life. Today's "Maker Movement" builds on that history, applying a new vocabulary to traditional craft skills, and often up-cycling raw or second-hand materials.

This October 2-11, Tennessee Craft is celebrating our state's makers with a new tradition - Tennessee Craft Week. The public is invited to support and celebrate the craft artists of this state.

Tennessee Craft puts the spotlight on craft artists with the First Lady of Tennessee Crissy Haslam, lending her support as the Honorary Chairman. With many craft events, displays and hands-on demonstrations, Tennessee Craft Week promotes and emphasizes the collective impact of crafts to supporters, media, and the public.

"The arts are fundamental in developing communities," shares Teri Alea, Director of Tennessee Craft. "Craft creates jobs for tens of thousands of Americans, creating vibrant cities where people want to live. And in a world increasingly driven by technology, handmade craft becomes a hand-to-heart connection between the creators and those who desire the work."

SAMPLER OF TENNESSEE CRAFT WEEK EVENTS:

• The Pink Palace Museum Craft Fair

• The National Ornamental Metal Museum Repair Days, a prelude event to Craft Week

• The Fall Tennessee Craft Fair in Centennial Park (event kicks-off Tennessee Craft Week)

• ARTOBER, a month of arts celebration in Nashville

• The Museum of Appalachia, Tennessee Fall Homecoming

• Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, professional training, gallery shows and workshops.

• Dollywood "National Southern Gospel and Harvest Celebration," demonstrations of traditional Appalachian crafts by regional artists in October.