Visual Arts - Disciplines

The practice of crafts is significant to Alberta's art community because it encompasses so many forms, running the gamut from quilting, woodcarving, stained glass, ceramics, knitting, sewing and welding. In fact, a review of craft art in Alberta would be as diverse as the participating artists.

In Canada, crafts became popular during what is dubbed "the arts and crafts movement" of the late 1800s, a reaction to the Industrial Revolution. During this time, people felt separated from their own creative ideas and uniqueness. Many individuals felt they were reduced to nameless workers, effortlessly repeating boring tasks. Advocates of craft art wanted to return to an authenticity in products, which they felt was lost in mass-produced goods. As a result, participation in crafts increased, developing into successful industries for artists and entrepreneurs.

In Alberta, many artists are part of the Alberta Craft Council, an organization that supports and represents a variety of crafts. Founded in 1980, the Alberta Craft Council (ACC) lobbies the government for increased funds, pursues new funding opportunities and develops media coverage for craft art in the province.