(Frankfort, KY) In recognition of long-term dedication to personal craft development and an exemplary level of accomplishment, three artisans are now designated Kentucky Crafted Emeritus honorees and granted lifetime honorary juried participant status by the Craft Marketing Program, (KCMP). Winners were announced during KCMP’s annual awards dinner, held at Kentucky Fair & Exposition Center, Louisville, as part of Kentucky Crafted: The Market, 2004.

The Kentucky artisans/craft businesses honored are as follows:The Wooden Utensil Company, (Shirley Smith), Pine Knot; Berea College Craft, Berea; and Sarah Frederick, Studio Potter, (Sarah Frederick), Louisville.

Nominations were made by juried participants in the Craft Marketing Program. Selections were based on several criteria, including quality of work, juried participant status in the Craft Marketing Program for ten or more consecutive years, state and national awards or honors, and a significant record of contribution to the craft community in other areas. Honorary members are eligible for all Program activities without the need to jury their work, or resubmit new work in future years.

Each received a certificate signed by Governor Ernie Fletcher. 

 "The Craft Marketing Program is proud of its history and the craftspeople who made it happen and wants to recognize those who have done so much to pave the way for Kentucky's artisans, " said Fran Redmon, Program Director.

The Kentucky Craft Marketing Program is a state agency in the Kentucky Arts Council, Commerce Cabinet, Commonwealth of Kentucky.  For more information, call 888 KY CRAFT (592-7238,) ext. 4801, or visit the Program's site at www.kycraft.ky.gov.

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Since 1981, the Craft Marketing Program's mission is to develop the state's craft industry, support and empower Kentucky artisans and craftspeople, create an economically viable environment for craft entrepreneurs, preserve the state's craft traditions, stimulate and support product development, and generate public awareness, public support and public/private partnerships.

The Program provides assistance to Kentucky residents, individuals, or groups wanting to develop as craft professionals through economic opportunities and training, to other outside entities (e.g., craft retailers, craft and art organizations, community and government agencies), and the general public. The craft industry in Kentucky contributes 252 million dollars in annual sales and Kentucky is recognized as a model state for its craft programs and its role in the $14 billion national craft industry.