Speculations

Craft artists rarely have the time to reflect on why they make the things they do, but when they do, their reflections are often insightful and inspiring. Recently a group of Western Canadian craft artist were asked to to speculate on what drives them to create their craft. Their "Speculations", in written form, along with their works make up this exhibition. "Speculations" was conceived and curated by Mary Sullivan Holdgrafer - textile artist, facilitator, curator, and scholar - with the assistance of University of Alberta Human Ecology student Rochelle Jackson. It first appeared in the Alberta Craft Council Gallery September 2, to October 28th, 2000.

An increasing number of creative individuals are exploring aspects of personal growth, healing, caring for the earth, spirituality and other value issues in craft form. This exhibition attempts to describe some of the issues currently being addressed by fine craft artists. Selection criteria for this exhibition required that the work reflect the personal values of the artists and that the artists discuss their values and their personal processes. Twenty-five craft artists were selected to participate. In the opinion of the selection committee each displays thoughtfulness and integrity, as well as technical expertise and artistic merit.

Take your time scrolling through this online exhibition. Simply click, with your mouse, on any of the images and a new window will appear containing a large image and details. In the new window you can then click on the artists' written speculations, and gain insight into their creative process.

All craft designs, text and images are copyright protected and may not be reproduced without written permission. Photography by Mario Pietramala. Contact the Alberta Craft Council for information.