The Kentucky Craft Marketing Program (KCMP) will continue a 19 year tradition by exhibiting Kentucky crafted products at the New York International Gift Fair (NYIGF), Jacob Javits Convention Center, August 14-18, 2004, from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. each day. 

The 146^th semi-annual NYIGF will present 2,900 exhibitors and 7,500 product lines. Show promoters anticipate 45,000 buyers to attendance from more than 60 countries. This biannual wholesale show is produced by George Little Management, LLC and occupies over 600,000 square feet.

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 five juried participants. Schall Studios and Design and Abby Glen Designs, (both from Louisville, Kentucky) will be exhibiting for the first time with KCMP. Clay House Pots (Louisville, Kentucky), The Weavery (Lexington, Kentucky), and Gail Cohen Designs (Lexington, Kentucky), have all exhibited previously.

Schall Studios and Design 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 be returning with unique, functional and decorative artwork pottery. “My participation at this show is invaluable to my business.  My work can be found in galleries all over the United States due to buyers in New York,” said Amy Elswick of Clay House Pots.  In their second appearance, The Weavery will exhibit rag rugs and accessories woven on wooden handlooms created by designer/weaver Harriet Giles.  Veteran Gail Cohen, of Gail Cohen Designs, known nationally for her unique fiber batik clothing & accessories, will be offering new packaging designs for her winter line of clothing.

 “Kentucky Craft Marketing Program has garnered respect over the years through its participation in this international trade show, that helps maintain our leadership position among other states that support their craft businesses,” said Vallorie Henderson, Special Projects Coordinator for KCMP.

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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 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: