Craft is art for your life–it can be the coffee cup or flower vase that you use every day, the quilt on your bed, your favorite chair, or even a sculpture in a public garden. That’s why every human responds to craft–it’s familiar, and we love it. Craft has its history in these objects that we surround ourselves with every day, as well as a tradition of being handmade. But what makes it contemporary?

Today’s contemporary craft artists honor historical traditions and techniques but often explore new possibilities in their materials, utilize 21st-century tools, or incorporate conceptual ideas. Some of these artists continue to create functional work; others are more concerned with form or content. We hope you’ll visit HCCC soon to learn more about how we are exploring and defining the field of contemporary craft through our exhibitions, educational programs and retail gallery.