Craft in America returns for its 16th season with a double-header that explores the surprisingly intertwined worlds of craft and science, and the often-overlooked importance of collectors. The first episode, “Science,” examines the intersection of craft with disciplines not typically associated with artistic expression: technology, engineering, biology, and even climate change. It’s a testament to the ever-evolving nature of craft, its ability to adapt and respond to the world around us.
The second episode, “Collectors,” shifts the focus to those who champion craft, the individuals and institutions whose passion and financial support sustain artists and the craft community. From the vibrant hues of Chicano art to the humble beauty of teapots and wooden spoons, the episode showcases a diverse range of collections, highlighting the unique stories behind the objects and the people who cherish them.
It’s a reminder that craft isn’t just about creation; it’s also about preservation, the passing down of traditions and techniques through generations. Craft in America, now a venerable institution in its own right, continues to champion the handmade, the tangible connection between creator and object. In a world increasingly dominated by mass production, the show offers a welcome respite, a celebration of the skill, dedication, and artistry that goes into crafting objects of enduring beauty and meaning.
Craft in America airs Fridays at 9 p.m. EST on PBS.
