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VisArts’ Craft + Design Event Postponed until June 4-6, 2021 at Main Street Station

July 14, 2020 News

With the health and safety of artists, volunteers, staff and attendees in mind, the events team at the Visual Arts Center of Richmond has decided to postpone the organization’s annual Craft + Design event until June 4-6, 2021 at Main Street Station due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

VisArts looked closely at Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for postponing or cancelling mass gatherings within the context of an event like Craft + Design. The progression of this national health crisis has made it clear that hosting a large-scale, community event in the fall could put both organizers and attendees at risk. 

“Given the uncertainty that still surrounds the COVID-19 crisis, we believe it’s best for us to postpone the event to 2021,” said VisArts Executive Director, Stefanie Fedor. “We know that this news is disappointing, but this decision was made with the health and safety of the participating artists and our community in mind. “ 

Credit: Joey Wharton Photography

The application deadline for artists has been extended to August 31, 2020. Artists can apply online at visarts.org/events/craft-design-show/artists/. The Craft + Design jury will evaluate applications in September and notify selected artists by  September 30. 

In addition to the in-person event planned for June 4-6, 2021, VisArts will host a virtual art event from November 20-29, 2020. Craft + Design Online will give shoppers the opportunity to browse and buy the work of artists who have been selected by the jury to show their work at Craft + Design in June 2021. All artists juried into the in-person show will be invited to participate in the online event. VisArts will create a separate application and jury process for artists who would like to participate in the virtual event only. 

Credit: Joey Wharton Photography

True to Craft + Design’s history, Craft + Design Online will kick off the holiday shopping season and provide an opportunity to support small businesses and local makers from all over the country. This online event will also include artist demonstrations, educational programming and a virtual Patrons’ Preview Party.

The in-person Craft + Design Show will include all of the traditional programming from previous years, including the Patrons’ Preview Party, Rise + Shine Brunch, Education Wing and the Clay Olympics. VisArts will share more information about the in-person event in early 2021.  

About Craft + Design: Now in its 56th year, Craft + Design showcases the work of contemporary craft artists from across the United States. Shoppers spend the weekend eating, drinking and browsing the work of artists from all over the country. Awards are presented in ceramics, precious metals, glass, wood and recycled materials, sustainability, booth design, contemporary design, innovative use of traditional craft materials and fiberVisArts also presents a best in show award as well as an award for the best new artist. 

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