Art vs. Craft

The indie revolution and the online handmade marketplaces, e.g. Etsy, have redefined the way that I look at handmade items. Growing up I spent a good deal of time dressed in handmade clothing. My mother had a knack for crocheting and I was usually sporting something that was way too colorful and very itchy.

I’d definitely describe my childhood as being influenced by a handmade touch. I loved anything that involved creating something beautiful but more often than not I felt frustrated and unsatisfied with the result of my projects. Having a father and grandfather that were fine artists made my lack of artistic progress even more angst ridden. I suppose it was craft that sustained me early on. It certainly wasn’t art. Art taunted me as I pressed my nose hard against the glass. It was craft, my old faithful, that stood by me with glue in hand ready to knock out the next project.

I’d never given much thought to the old “art vs. craft” debacle until I made the move from lifelong crafter to artist.  It wasn’t really a pursuit, it was that I grew into it. I woke up one day and craft no longer fit. The realization has led me to question the differences between the two.

So what is the meaning of craft…and how is it different from art?

I’m not sure one ever stops being a “crafter”. Maybe I’ve just progressed up the creative ladder? (Then again, I’m still using glue as one of my essential materials.) Maybe I’ve just built upon my crafting past and emerged as a more capable craftsperson. Artist.

..is this internal monologue a bit too ridiculous?

The jury is still out on this one. I’m still exploring the debate and other interesting comments on the subject. I’ll get back to it.

Read about Part II of the Art vs. Craft debate and stop in at the latest Art vs. Craft rant.