As I walked around from booth to booth I was captivated by the work at the craft show, but mostly I was intrigued by the artists. They all had these amazing stories of the journey to mastering their craft.

What a commitment to a dream? Playing with wood, glass and/or threads and spinning, shaping and carving them into something magical. I was told about the struggle since the resession and the increased number of shows needed to make the same return.

Aside from the challenges it was obvious that there was a joy for their craft. They spend hours sometimes days sitting and making their unique pieces. Most averaging about 30 years honing their skill. Really makes me want to push beyond the ordinary to make special extraordinary.

American Craft Council Show Baltimore

So many artists and makers

Many of the artist teach their craft and have come to the show from all over the USA.

Nick Leonoff – went from business studies to becoming a glass maker.

Michael Mode – has been coming to the show since 1981.

Thomas Wargin ‘Leap of Faith’ – This sculpture represents a major decision we may make in life. It conveys the risks involved unknown uncertainties attributed to the choices made.

Thomas Wargin ‘Inside Dilemma’ – Torn between the choice over our own perplexing situations. There is a struggle and battle between the choice which is right and those which are wrong.