The Role of Crafts in Art

Crafts are not considered to be art in the sense that they are rarely given showings or sold for high prices. They are art that has been simplified for many people to be able to do. This allows a person without a great deal of art education to produce beautiful items. Crafts are generally made by hand or with a few simple tools. They are relatively easy to learn and can be mastered by the average person in a few days or weeks.

Many local art and craft shops hold lessons in their stores. For the store, this is a way to find new customers for the supplies they carry. Local artists generally teach the classes. The artists benefit by being able to make extra money. People who want to study art get the benefit of a classically trained artist who will teach them as much as they want to learn. The store, the artists and the students all benefit from this type of class setting. It is convenient for students, and it helps artists buy the supplies they need.

While many crafts are simpler forms of art, this does not mean they take no effort. Learning pottery and ceramics can take years for a person who wishes to produce beautifully finished pieces. Throwing clay on a wheel takes strength and a hefty dose of manual dexterity. Developing the muscles and the ability to shape the clay properly is not always easy for many. Decorating finished pieces is sometimes difficult for those without patience. They can always use ceramic decals or ceramic transfers if necessary, or they can take more classes to learn how to decorate their pieces.

Learning to produce crafts is a fun way to spend time and learn new ways to produce items. Crafts offer a wide range of materials and products to be worked. Everything from yarn to cloth, clay to glazes and leather to wood and stone can be part of a crafter’s repertoire. Making beautiful objects by hand can produce amazing results, even if the crafter is not a professional artist. Creating pieces with simple craft knowledge can turn almost anything into art.