Forty-one craftspeople answer the questions of who, what, when, where, and how he or she started and maintains a career in the arts. Accompanied by more than 260 photos showing the artists, their work spaces, and their creations, each interview gives experience-based answers to anyone interested in the lives of artists. For students and career changers to makers at all levels, this resource captures insight into the entrepreneurial nature of living a life in the arts—and the choices, bits of luck, joys, and tenacity one needs to overcome hurdles in useful and surprising ways. The 41 artists from across the United States work in many types of media; they include, for example, woodturner Dixie Biggs, fiber artist Carol Eckert, metalsmith Pat Flynn, glass artist Judith Schaecter, and ceramist Mara Superior. As their answers unfold, what develops is a collection of independent voices that follow unique, creative journeys in the arts, despite the twists and turns life takes. This distillation of expertise is a valuable resource to all who are considering a creative career.
Jacklyn Scott, Kristin Müller, and Tommy Simpson make up three generations of artists who have an ongoing conversation about the adaptability required to flourish as an artist. Stuart Kestenbaum is former director of the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts.
"The very best way to understand the unique and special world of craft is to experience it first hand. *ITAL*Making Good*END* offers a glimpse into the lives of the people *ITAL*behind*END* the art. By getting a feel for their values, motivations and characters we can enjoy their skilled work even more through a richer understanding of their creative spirit." -Ennis Carter, Founder, Social Impact Studios
"The best of contemporary craft is imbued with memorable diversity and echoes the continuum of craft history: with insightful references to function, a commitment to exceptional ideas, to one's chosen palette and process, an individual, evolving vocabulary and a developing mastery. And, always in evidence, for both maker and viewer, a celebration of the tactile enticement of materials, a zest for challenges and exploration and excesses of passion! This book honors all of that and introduces some of those, at different levels of experience, who understand and offer that shared joy in abundance." -Gail M. Brown, Curator of Contemporary Craft
"A much-needed exploration of what it takes to make an artistic life for oneself; it is not an easy path. This book aims to demystify how some artists achieve a life of art making. The wide range of artists and scenarios presented underlines the fact that there is no one right answer. Read this book if you want to be inspired by creative passion, learn about the personal history of these artists, or draw lessons from how each has carved out a living by pursuing their art." -Jennifer Zwilling, Curator of Artistic Programs, The Clay Studio, Philadelphia
*Profiles forty-one artists' careers that include their education, influences, personal approach, and insight into the complex process of creating and making a broad range of objects. While each has developed their own path they have in common the challenge and rewarding experience of working with materials to create personal expressions for others to cherish and enjoy." -Paul J. Smith, Director Emeritus, Museum of Arts and Design
