More on “new wave” vs. traditional crafting

Speaking of the occasional tension between the newer wave of DIY crafters I wrote about in Handmade 2.0 and the more established/traditional “fine craft” segment: Here is a pretty interesting post and even more interesting series of comments about a presentation at a Society of North American Goldsmiths conference. I know that doesn’t sound like the likely setting for anything that would spark a lively debate, but trust me.

This account on the blog of jewelry-maker Imogene describes a presentation titled “D.I.Y, Websites, and Energy: The New Alternative Craft.” That sounds pretty Handmade 2.0!

But the problem, as described, is umbrage over the perceived condescension and dismissive-ness of one speaker, Bruce Metcalf. Metcalf himself — who I’m not familiar with, but on the other hand certainly doesn’t seem to have read my Times Mag article, so we’re even — weighs in in the ensuing long series of comments to clarify and defend his remarks.

(Also weighing in is the other speaker, Andrew Wagner, who doesn’t come in for any particular criticism here, which I was relieved to discover, since I’ve corresponded with him and he seems like a nice and open-minded person.)

Personally I’m most intrigued by the raising of the issue of how many “alt” crafters have advanced degrees. My general sense is that advanced degrees are perceived as not particularly interesting, let alone important, in the Handmade 2.0 world in particular, or in the broader DIY/brand underground/indiepreneur culture it is part of.

Anyway, the way I read the discussion, there does seem to be some constructiveness from this getting out into the open. We’ll see what happens, but meanwhile, if you’re interested in the crafty world, it’s a must read.

Footnote: This event was in, of all places, Savannah, GA! How come no one told me? I get no street cred at all!

(Big thanks to Nancy at Circa Ceramics for pointing out the Imogene post!)