Did you know that one of the top organizations for fine craft in the country can be found right here in New Hampshire? Formed in 1932 to help craftspeople make a living during the Depression, the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen is now widely recognized for its high standard of craft, the creativity of its members and the excellence of their work.
An arts destination, the League headquarters is on Main Street in Concord, NH, right in the midst of an art “heaven” of sorts; sharing the same city block as the Capitol Center for the Arts and the independent Red River Theaters. Housed inside a beautiful, green-engineered building, called the “Smile” building, League visitors will find plenty to smile about inside and out. Impressive artwork is everywhere. A towering, totem-like moose figure made of interwoven sticks stands guard in front of the entrance. Inside, ever-changing galleries display some of the very best craft New Hampshire has to offer. On a recent visit an arching bench, made from a single piece of wood by master woodworker, Jon Brooks, was among the many extraordinary pieces on display. In the museum rooms, pottery, glasswork, metal work, carvings, furniture and mixed media celebrate the true art that comes from the hands of master craftspeople. It’s hard not to “ooo and ahh” when you visit the gallery, which also hosts numerous educational events, demonstrations and exhibits.
The League of New Hampshire Craftsmen may be best known for holding one of the largest and most prestigious craft events in the country: the Craftsmen’s Fair, held each year in August, at the foot of Mount Sunapee.Should you want to take home some of New Hampshire’s finest craft, two-tenths of a mile north of the Smile building is the League’s Concord retail store, one of 7 such stores that can be found around the state.To find out more about the League, the Fair, or for news of new gallery exhibits, openings, and demonstrations, log onto www.nhcrafts.org
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Andy Mack Jr. is not only a Granite State Ambassadors and NH native, but he grew up on his family apple farm in Londonderry NH. He is a former radio broadcaster and program director with over 25 years of experience in marketing and promotions. He runs workshops on social media, marketing and promotions...and constantly works on creating local connections where small businesses, artists and charities can join forces to their advantage. www.andymackjr.com
