2011 The Year of Making
Wow, what fun 2011 has been sew far! Just a few weeks ago, I was contacted by Ric Cengari of VPR's local radio program "Vermont Edition" to see if I was interested in talking about "The Year of Making- 2011". I am always eager to talk about the long tradition of Vermonters making handmade goods. Plus, I was extra-super-excited for the opportunity to meet Jane Lindholm and see the VPR studio (I've been a huge fan of their programming for years!)
The idea for this show came from a blog post by Emily Blistein, who owns Clementine Store in Middlebury, Vermont. She declared 2011 as "the year of Making" and apparently most Vermonters agree. We heard from knitters, woodworkers, beer makers, quilters, bee keepers, gardners, artists and even a guy who makes hot air balloons!
Some of my favorite local fiber artists, Sarah O'Green & Wylie Garcia contributed to the conversation; as did many a "maker" proud of their traditional Vermont skills. A continued refrain was the desire for connectivity & community. Crafters and makers all across the state are eager for more opportunties to show & sell their wares; in addition to supporting educating, sharing and encouraging one another.
I would love to see 2011 be, not only, the year of Making, but also the year of Connecting!
Let the conversations continue...
Making Things Has Returned
Tuesday, 01/18/11 12:07pm
Jane Lindholm, Produced by Ric Cengeri
Many people in the area have turned to making things, from creating clothing with reused materials, to making their own foods, beer and wines.
Emily Blistein of Clementine in Middlebury says that perfecting a craft takes perseverance and help from classes or friends. Gyllian Svensson of The Bobbin: Slow Fashion + Sustainable Design in Burlington views clothing construction like learning to play guitar. She says you wouldn't expect write a hit song the moment you picked up the instrument.
Listen to Jane Lindholm's interview with these local crafters.
