Our Mission
Mission: CraftNOW unites, celebrates, and supports the people, businesses, and institutions of the craft community of Philadelphia.
Vision: Through education, curation and economic development, we work to continue Philadelphia’s vibrant history as a capital of craft- a place where craft is learned, created, seen, purchased, collected, and shared.
CraftNOW Philadelphia unites the leading institutions and artists of Philadelphia’s community in a celebration of the city’s rich legacy in the field, its internationally-recognized contemporary scene, and its important role as an incubator for arts based in wood, clay, fiber, metal and glass. Through both creating and spotlighting events during the week of the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show, CraftNOW invites locals and visitors alike to explore Philadelphia’s innovations in the world of the handmade.
We believe craft is an important form of expression, which brings wholeness in people’s lives and enriches communities. Craft can be a convener in a divisive age. People from all walks of life, all ethnicities, all age groups, all neighborhoods and all political viewpoints can and do participate in making things.
It is our goal to be innovators and thought leaders when encouraging our peers to unite their “craft capital” in ways that generate a supportive network to the betterment of their local communities and the field at large.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is CraftNOW Philadelphia?
CraftNOW Philadelphia is a network of individuals and institutions joining together to raise the profile of contemporary craft for the city. We want everyone to experience what makes Philadelphia the best place to see, learn, make and collect!
2. How do I become involved?
There are many ways to contribute to the programming of CraftNOW Philadelphia, especially through volunteering and donations. Please email info@craftnowphila.org to learn more.
3. What and when are CraftNOW programs?
CraftNOW Philadelphia hosts the Tools of the Trades conference in March, directly connecting makers to business support. Our youth education programming is organized in conjunction with Philadelphia’s Department of Parks and Recreation’s annual summer camps. Additionally, we curate an itinerary of events each November to coincide with the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show. Follow us on social media @craftnowphl to learn more about pop-up events and see what our partners are doing year-round!
4. How do I become a sponsor?
CraftNOW sponsors benefit from oppurtunities for exposure through our network and partner organizations. Contact Interim Executive Director Emily Hawkins, ehawkins@craftnowphila.org to discuss inventive ways your brand can be featured during signature events.
Programming Partners
