The Kentucky Craft Marketing Program (KCMP), a division of the Kentucky Arts Council, will be exhibiting “Kentucky Crafted”™ products for the 22nd year at the New York International Gift Fair (NYIGF), January 28 – February 1, 2007, 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 in the Handmade Section, showcasing products from four juried participants: Beaded Bliss, Lexington; Abby Glen Designs, Louisville; Gail Cohen Designs, Lexington; and Moss Hill LLC, Louisville.
Second-time exhibitor Jeanine Moneypenny, (Moss Hill LLC) will be offering natural/organic products including creative candles, soaps and related products.
Veteran exhibitor Abby Glen Designs, a two-family business, will present jewelry design incorporating some of the finest beads and semi precious stones available.
Third-year exhibitor, Jennifer Stephenson McLamb, (Beaded Bliss) will be offering contemporary jewelry designs featuring high-tech precious metal clay and fused glass, uniquely combined with ancient bead-weaving techniques.
Also returning will be Gail Cohen, (Gail Cohen Designs) who has been designing batik clothing and accessories since 1975. Her pieces are individually hand dyed on natural fibers. Her focus is on “comfort” and resort wear in bright colors. Gail will also be offering a line of tabletop ware including placemats, linens, table runners, and more.
The 152nd semi-annual NYIGF will present 2,600 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. The Fair’s Handmade® division will be expanded and repositioned this winter, making it easier for buyers to source and shop handcrafted resources. According to Dorothy Belshaw, Show Director and GLM senior vice president, “These changes will result in a more efficient and rewarding market experience for buyers and suppliers this winter, while also demonstrating the Fair’s depth in several product categories.”
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.
(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 purpose 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: