FRANKFORT, Ky. — Quality craftsmanship and artistic excellence produced by Kentucky's finest artists are in the spotlight during American Craft Week, Oct. 5-14. The weeklong celebration in Kentucky was designated via proclamation by Governor Steve Beshear and is sponsored by the Kentucky Arts Council.

American Craft Week is the annual coast-to-coast recognition of the makers, retailers, collectors and exhibitors of handmade craft. Events celebrating artists in the Kentucky Crafted program are scheduled throughout the week at Kentucky Crafted Retailer locations in Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio.

"American craft enriches our homes, public spaces and everyday lives and contributes to our state's economy," said Gov. Beshear. "Kentucky's craft artisans are among the finest in the nation, and I encourage Kentuckians to take part in the celebration by visiting a Kentucky Crafted Retailer."

Kentucky Crafted Retailers offer a wide variety of merchandise and actively promote the Kentucky Crafted brand. Retailers are celebrating American Craft Week and Kentucky Crafted artists with special activities, demonstrations, open houses and promotions. A list of retailers and events can be found on the arts council website.

"The Kentucky Arts Council is a proud regional sponsor of American Craft Week and is glad to put the spotlight on the state's craft artisans and retail outlets that support the handmade craft industry," said Lori Meadows, executive director of the arts council. "Kentucky has a tradition of producing quality craft and artistic excellence. We hope Kentuckians will seize the opportunity to shop local and buy handmade during the weeklong celebration."

American Craft Week is one of the many special events coinciding with National Arts and Humanities Month, celebrated in Kentucky and proclaimed by Gov. Beshear.

The Kentucky Arts Council, the state arts agency, creates opportunities for Kentuckians to value, participate in and benefit from the arts. Kentucky Arts Council funding is provided by the Kentucky General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts.

American Craft Week is the annual, national celebration of all things handmade. Now in its third year, it honors the makers, retailers, collectors and exhibitors of handmade craft. For a full listing of activities across the nation, go to www.americancraftweek.com.

National Arts and Humanities Month, coordinated by Americans for the Arts, encourages Americans to explore new facets of the arts and humanities in their lives and begin a lifelong habit of active participation in the arts and humanities.

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