Kentucky.gov

Craft Marketing Program
“Kentucky Crafted” Businesses Return to the New York International Gift Fair

The Kentucky Craft Marketing Program (KCMP), a division of the Kentucky Arts Council, will be exhibiting “Kentucky Crafted”™  products for the 21st year at the New York International Gift Fair (NYIGF), January 28 – February 1, 2006, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, New York.

Vallorie Henderson, Special Projects Coordinator for Kentucky Craft Marketing Program (KCMP), will be managing the KCMP booth, #5304/5403 (a doublewide end cap) in the Handmade Section, showcasing products from four juried participants, Aardvark Woodworks Inc., Clay City; Abby Glen Designs, Louisville; Beaded Bliss, Lexington; and Through Dinah’s Eyes, Louisville.

Aardvark Woodworks Inc. will be returning offering natural and painted children’s toy chests, benches and various functional items. Veteran exhibitor Abby Glen Designs, a two family business, will present jewelry design incorporating some of the finest beads and semi precious stones available.

New to the NYIGF booth will be Jennifer Stephenson McLamb, (Beaded Bliss) offering contemporary jewelry designs featuring high-tech precious metal clay and fused glass, uniquely combined with ancient bead-weaving techniques.

First time exhibitor, Dinah Smiley (Through Dinah’s Eyes), will display multi-media work incorporating a wide variety of digital processes using traditional drawing, painting, and photography to create unique images on beautiful yet functional house ware accessories.

The 149^th semi-annual NYIGF will present 2,800 exhibitors and 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. “Standing on 75 years of service, the New York International Gift Fair is at the forefront of innovation, design and customer satisfaction.   We’re proud to continue this long-standing tradition this winter with an exciting line-up of product introductions and educational and networking opportunities,” said Leslie Nathan-Street, senior vice president and group show director.

The 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. KCMP was one of 17 charter members recognized for it’s long-term participation during the 20^th anniversary celebration of the NYIGF in August 2005.

(Note contact information below)

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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:

Beaded Bliss

Jennifer Stephenson McLamb

748 Winterhill Lane

Lexington, Kentucky 40509

(859) 489-6757

jenmclamb@insightbb.com

www.jennifermclamb.com (under construction)

Through Dinah’s Eyes

 Dinah Smiley