ART VS CRAFT: EXPLORING THE CATEGORIES OF “ART” AND “CRAFT” THROUGH QUILTING

Abstract

22 pagesThis project aims to explore the similarities and differences between the categories of “art” and “craft” in the creative world through research and personal practice. As a multimedia artist, I have found myself fascinated by the noticeable differences in the way my peers, academics, and other professionals in the visual arts space speak about “art” as opposed to “craft.” I have observed that “art” is often preceded by value judgments like “fine” or “high” that essentially position “art” as something esoteric, valuable, and exclusive (Tompkins). “Craft,” on the other hand, seems to be more of a catch-all category for creative works that serve a more practical purpose, require specific skills to produce, and can be re-created by following a set of instructions (Wentworth Galleries). I have noticed that “art” tends to value the process behind creating the piece, emphasizing expression, whereas “craft” seems centered around the final product, emphasizing craftsmanship (Davies). While these two categories seem clearly defined at first glance, I have observed through my own practice how certain creative works transcend or overlap “craft” and “art,” specifically fiber arts– a genre that has historically been left out of professional and academic art spaces due to its associations with femininity, poverty, and utility (Brooklyn Museum). I intend to explore the differences and similarities between these categories by first understanding how academics in the space define “art” and “craft” and examining recent discourse about the subjectivity of these classifications (Markowitz). I will simultaneously research the rich history of quilting in the United States of America over the past two centuries to more thoroughly understand the symbolism and significance of different quilt squares, patterns, and styles. I will then apply my research to create my own quilt while documenting and reflecting on my process to answer the question: Can craft be art?