CraftBoston
This past Saturday, we had the pleasure of attending CraftBoston at the World Trade Center in Boston, MA. Produced by the Society of Arts and Crafts, America's oldest non-profit craft organization incorporated in 1897, CraftBoston is a premiere New England exhibition and sale of one-of-a-kind contemporary crafts from 175 artists from all over the world. There wasn't a crocheted i-pod case or handmade greeting card to be found, this was truly an upscale haven for exploring unique wares that you will not spot in your typical gift emporium.
Part museum, part retail space, this was my first time visiting CraftBoston so I wasn't sure what to expect until I started exploring the many booths and chatting with the volunteers and artists. We met artists from as far away as Denmark to Boston and New Hampshire locals. On the surface, the show was very laid back and ho-hum. Not a lot of buzz in the air, very reserved. However, once we took the time to linger at the various booths, speaking with the talents behind the splendid wares, the learning process, followed by immense appreciation, took hold of us and the show really came alive. When visiting a small show like this, I highly suggest walking the entire floor first to get an overview of everything that is out there. There are two advantages of gaining a brief birds eye perspective. First, since this particular show is a cash and carry event, meaning that you can purchase items and leave the show with them (unlike most gift shows), you want to make sure you see everything before making a purchase. The next advantage, at least to me, is that once you see everything, you know exactly which booths you want to spend time in, meeting the artist and learning more about their inspiration and processes. Always approach a show with a plan of action, that way, you won't leave frustrated and exhausted, rather refreshed and inspired instead.
During our visit to CraftBoston, I hand-picked a few of my favorite artists and designers, all of which I'll share with you here on my blog. I hope you enjoy taking a little tour of the show with me.
Stay tuned...
Outside of the World Trade Center, Boston
Opposite of the WTC is the Seaport Hotel, a real gem where
we've stayed during weekends when we needed to escape country living.
I worked in the WTC, my office space overlooked the water on the first floor,
so I have very fond memories of this area in general.
(images snapped by my husband and I.)