Beau Haddock, Media Communications

and Marketing

(502) 564-9738 Beau.Haddock@ky.gov

The Kentucky Craft Marketing Program (KCMP) will be exhibiting Kentucky crafted products for the 20^th year at the New York International Gift Fair (NYIGF), January 29 – February 2, 2005, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

The 148^th semi-annual NYIGF will present 2,800 exhibitors and 6,000 product lines. Show promoters anticipate 43,000 buyers to attend from more than 60 countries. This semi-annual wholesale show is produced by George Little Management, LLC and occupies over 650,000 square feet. All American makers will display a “Made in the USA” tent card in their booth or an American flag on their booth sign to indicate that their work is made in America. 

Vallorie Henderson, Special Projects Coordinator for Kentucky Craft Marketing Program (KCMP), will be flying an American Flag at the KCMP booth, #5304/5403 (a doublewide end cap) in the Handmade Section, showcasing products from four juried participants. Schall Studio and Designs, Abby Glen Designs, Clay House Pots (all from Louisville, Kentucky), and Gail Cohen Designs (Lexington, Kentucky), will be attending and have exhibited in previous years. 

Veteran Gail Cohen, of Gail Cohen Designs, known nationally for her unique fiber batik clothing & accessories, will be offering a brand new line of tabletop ware including placemats, linens, table runners, and more. “ I am so excited about the show this time and can’t wait to get feedback from buyers on my new line of product. After 9/11 people have been paying close attention to improving their homes with creative and interesting art and handmade items. By following this national trend, my business is taking a wonderful turn. I have had the greatest fun creating things I have never done before,” said Gail.

“All four exhibitors will work together to create a display that features their newest products for the Winter 2005 show. The result is sure to be a unique table setting that demonstrates how to use some of Kentucky’s best handmade products in every day life,” said Vallorie Henderson, KCMP Special Projects Coordinator.

Schall Studio and Designs will offer wheel thrown, hand shaped and custom glazed pottery for the home.  Abby Glen Designs, a two family business, will present jewelry design incorporating some of the finest beads and semi precious stones available. Clay House Pots will contribute unique, functional and decorative artwork pottery.

Kentucky Craft Marketing Program has garnered respect over the years through its participation in this international trade show, which helps maintain Kentucky’s leadership position among other states that support their craft businesses.

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Kentucky Craft Marketing Program is a division of the Kentucky Arts Council in the Commerce Cabinet.

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.

Contact Information for the Craft Marketing Program Juried Participants:

Gail Cohen Designs

Gail Cohen

309 Cassidy Avenue

Lexington, Kentucky 40502

(859) 269-5724

(Fiber)Batik clothing & accessories

gailsart@worldnet.att.net

Clay House Pots

Amy Elswick

David Cross

3007 Brownsboro Rd.

Louisville, Kentucky  40206

Phone: (502 893-0888)

amy@clayhousepots.com

clayhousepots.com

Schall Studio and Designs

 J.D. Schall

 365 Ouerbacker Ct.

 Louisville, Kentucky 40208

 (502) 634-0723

 jd@schallstudio.com

 schallstudio.com