Entries sought for Directory of Traditional American Crafts

Early American Life magazine is seeking entries for the top traditional artisans in America as judged by a panel of museum curators, collectors, and other experts.

Those selected for the Directory of Traditional American Crafts will be recognized in the pages of Early American Life magazine and in nationwide publicity. Those receiving the highest honors will have their work photographed in a major museum setting among complimentary period pieces, and those photos will be published in the magazine.

“The Early American Life Directory of Traditional American Crafts embraces fine art, folk art, and trades — the work of human hands in traditional media and styles. In the past, participants have submitted baskets, period clothing, dolls and toys, Shaker boxes, formal and painted furniture, glass, leather work, metal work, ornamental and historical painting, pottery, wood carving, and weaponry. The unifying element is their historical nature—objects crafted by hand before the mid-1800s,” the magazine said in a statement.

The directory is open to artisans who work with period materials, techniques, and tools in traditional styles or who depict traditional scenes. Selection is limited to work representing the period before the American Civil War but embraces European-influenced (for example, Pennsylvania German), American colonial, and Native American artistry. Artisans must demonstrate scholarship, and their work must be true to the period it represents.

For an application and more information, visit www.earlyamericanlife.com/directory