Distinguished Artist Series Saturday "Studio Tour" features fiber artists Giovanna Swaby AND Adebunmi Gbadebo​
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Distinguished Artist Series Sunday Lecture

​On Saturday, March 20, the James Renwick Alliance for Craft hosted a virtual "studio tour" with textile artists Giovanna Swaby and Adebunmi Gbadebo from Claire Oliver Gallery.  The artists discussed the evolution of their art and shared current works.

Sunday, March 21, the JRACraft was joined by textile artist Bisa Butler for a virtual lecture.  Butler shared an in-depth look at several pieces from her current exhibit at Claire Oliver Gallery, as well as a discussion of her inspiration while studying as an art student at Washington, DC's Howard University and how she incorporated elements of AfriCOBRA into her early work.
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Upcoming DAS artists: https://www.jra.org/distinguished-artist-series.html 
Sok Vision video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pwe4DbQbGq0
Vlisco Fabrics: https://shop.vlisco.com/en/all-fabrics
Kaffe Fassett Collective: https://www.freespiritfabrics.com/kaffe-fassett-collective-collections/
AKN Fabrics & Textiles: https://aknfabrics.com/

KATE ROBERTS 
JRACraft Chrysalis Award

ANI KASTEN 
Distinguished Artist Series
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Ceramic artists Kate Roberts and Ani Kasten give thoughtful presentations about their work, inspiration, and lives as artists. With vulnerability and bravery, each creates unique work using untraditional techniques. Their differing backgrounds and a shared interest in materiality make for a dynamic juxtaposition that should not be missed.

"They spoke honestly, eloquently, and revealed the humanity that informs their life and work." - guest of the lecture

As the Renwick Gallery approaches its 50th anniversary, the James Renwick Alliance for Craft is renewing its commitment to expanding the Gallery’s collection with the 50th Anniversary Acquisitions Fund.  The fund is part of the JRA’s long history of supporting acquisitions, including iconic pieces like Karen LaMonte’s Reclining Dress Impression with Drapery, Judy McKie’s Monkey Settee, and the Nick Cave Soundsuit. 
 
The Gallery has an ambitious plan to build its collection, not just by filling gaps, but by expanding its range and scope, adding artists who are new to the collection, artists whose work is great but has not been in the spotlight, and artists who are an important part of the future of craft.  The Gallery’s goal is to add more than 100 new objects to the collection.
 
The 50th Anniversary Acquisitions Fund will support that effort.  All of the money raised for this fund will support acquisitions for the Renwick Gallery’s permanent collection, chosen from the list of works that the curators have developed.
 
Donors to the fund will receive recognition and other benefits described below.  Donate now to be a part of this historic and unprecedented moment in craft history.
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