ARTifacts | 64 Years of Kentucky Craftsmanship
February 10 - March 14, 2025
Closing Reception March 14th
Join us as we explore the fascinating history and origins of the Kentucky Guild!
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This exhibition honors the Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen (KGAC), Kentucky's oldest statewide arts organization, and its profound impact on the arts and crafts community. Founded in 1961, the Kentucky Guild has been a catalyst for creativity, education, and collaboration. From the Guild Train's innovative role in bringing fine craft to communities across the state to its long-standing art fairs in Berea, "ARTifacts" traces the journey of Kentucky craftsmanship through its rich history, showcasing the Guild's pivotal role in promoting artistic expression and the preservation of traditional craft techniques.
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This collection of work - spanning historical artifacts and archival materials - celebrates the enduring connection between past and present. It highlights how the Guild has nurtured a sense of community, supported the creative economy, and inspired generations of artists. By reflecting on its legacy, we look toward the future, encouraging the next wave of artisans to continue weaving Kentucky's vibrant heritage into the fabric of tomorrow's art world.
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As you explore this exhibit, you'll witness the transformation of craft from a tradition rooted in Kentucky's past to a dynamic, evolving force that remains vital to the region's cultural landscape.
Origins | Art as a Journey
March 17 - April 25, 2025
Deadline to apply: March 14, 2025
In our exhibit, "ARTifacts," we reflected on the history of the Guild and the many changes, adventures, and challenges that helped form who we are as an organization today and growing our vision for the future. Now, we reflect on the personal journeys we undertake as artists and craftspeople. As we learn how to work in each of our chosen mediums, we continually develop our skills, gain information, and learn new techniques. Looking back at our early work is often uncomfortable or even embarrassing as we see it with new eyes!
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Both Exhibiting KGAC Members and the community are invited to submit pairs of items, one early piece from the beginning of your journey and one recent piece in the same medium that demonstrates your own personal artistic growth, development, and learning.
"Origins" invites you to enter this exploration of growth and change with us, whether you are a working artist or a hobbyist, the exhibit will give you the opportunity to evaluate your growth and share your journey.
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Now accepting applications! Individuals may submit up to three separate pairs of items. KGAC Members are welcome to submit work in their juried medium or other mediums of their choosing. A set of small items (for example, a matching set of jewelry or triptych paintings in the same medium) would qualify as one item. If you no longer have the original work, or the work cannot be transported (for example, a mural or installation), high-quality digital images are an acceptable substitute. Work should be display-ready and participants are welcome to provide business cards if desired. The applications will be reviewed by the KGAC Exhibit Committee and participants will be notified regarding acceptance and delivery of work. We will arrange for drop-off times, or participants are welcome to ship items- please include a return shipping label). We look forward to joining you on your journey.
