July 18 - October 31, 2009

This engaging exhibition features 89 works by 79 members of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen and is on display in the Museum’s Central and Ground Floor Galleries. From Raw to Refined explores the craftsman’s path as he or she transforms the raw materials and creative energy into exemplary, finished works of art.

There was an Opening Reception on Friday, July 17, 5:30 - 8:00 p.m., open to the public (Guild Members and featured artists and their families were admitted free – otherwise, regular Museum admission fees applied), with refreshments available. Visitors could meet the artists and discuss their artwork!

Elegant vessels born in riverbed clay find their final form through the skilled hands and creative minds of their master craftsmen. Fallen trees become fine furnishings, spoons or turned bowls. Shawls from sheep’s wool, precious jewelry from raw metals and gems; each fine craft traces its origins to earth, field, forest and beyond, before its transformation in the studio.

The exhibition is arranged thematically according to material sources and incorporate multiple displays to illustrate these creative paths. Displays include educational vignettes which explains the steps on the path from raw material to refined craft. Descriptions and images of the craftsman’s process accompany each section.

Photo: Tim Knight, functional pottery, Pottstown

For a PDF file of the current press release, click here.

For a complete list and photos of works represented in this exhibition, click here.