This year, the artists selected represent some 35 states across the nation. Many of them, including Charleston, South Carolina-based Mary Jackson whose baskets have been on view in the White House, are renowned in the craft world and are represented in major public and private collections. Forty exhibitors are new to the show, including John Rais of Layton, New Jersey, who will display his forged steel tables and Frances Smersh of Seattle, Washington, who will exhibit her sterling silver and fresh water pearl necklaces. Artists based in the Philadelphia area include ceramist George Johnson and furniture-maker Jack Larimore, both of whom are represented in the Philadelphia Museum of Art's craft collection. The 12 categories of works represented in this year's show embrace a striking variety of forms and functions.
Wood crafts range from intricately designed reliquaries to ironwood and coconut shell ladles.
Unusual materials such as coiled sea grasses and recycled copper wire are woven into baskets on display. Fiber wearables reflect a myriad of styles, among them the contour couture of topographical map dresses. Other categories at the Show are glass, jewelry, metal, paper, leather, furniture, clay, mixed media, and fiber-decorative works. All work is for sale. Copyright 2000, Philadelphia Museum of Art.