Author: National Endowment for the Arts. Research Division

Publisher:

Published: 1981

Total Pages: 56

ISBN-13:

To describe what has been learned about craft membership organizations is the goal of this research report, which utilizes data collected in a nationwide survey of craft organizations. Specific purposes of the study were aimed at developing a better understanding of U.S. craft artists and organizations. Findings indicated that a typical craft organization has existed for 10 years, has 90 local members, is involved in exhibits, sales, and workshops, is a nonprofit corporation, and has an annual budget of $3,500. Not all of its members work in the same medium, but a majority work with clay or fiber mediums. The largest number of the estimated 1,218 U.S. organizations is located in the east north central states, while the highest number of artists resides in New England and the eastern south central states. Over 60 percent of the responding organizations are involved in more than one craft medium. Jury review as a prerequisite to membership is imposed by 30 percent of craft organizations. Provided services and activities are frequently available to the general public, while special functions and publications tend to be oriented toward members. Most of these organizations perceive themselves as having few serious problems; there is also evidence that accelerated formation of crafts organizations occurred 5 to 10 years ago and that the current tendency is toward consolidation, rather than expansion. Figures, tables, and appendices are included. (JHP)