Craft In America Season 9 Episode 2
The Overview
Craft In America is a documentary series that explores the diverse world of American craft. The series chronicles the work and stories of artisans who make beautiful and functional objects by hand. Season 9 Episode 2 of the series is titled "Identity" and explores how craft is used to express and reflect cultural identity.
The Featured Artisans
The episode features three artisans: Cristina Cordova, Charles Carillo, and Timmy Mallett. Each of these artisans work in different mediums and come from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Cristina Cordova
Cristina Cordova is a ceramicist who was born in Puerto Rico and now lives and works in Penland, North Carolina. Her work explores themes of identity, memory, and loss. She uses the human form as a canvas to explore these themes, creating sculptural pieces that are both beautiful and haunting.
Charles Carillo
Charles Carillo is a woodworker who was born and raised in New York City. His work is deeply influenced by his Puerto Rican heritage and the urban environment he grew up in. He creates furniture that combines traditional woodworking techniques with urban graffiti and street art.
Timmy Mallett
Timmy Mallett is a blacksmith who lives and works in Houston, Texas. He creates functional objects using traditional blacksmithing techniques, but also incorporates modern design elements into his work. His pieces reflect his African American heritage and the history of blacksmithing in America.
The Themes
The episode explores several themes related to identity and cultural expression through craft. The artisans discuss how their personal experiences and cultural backgrounds influence their work. They also talk about the importance of preserving traditional craft techniques while also incorporating modern design elements.
Identity
The theme of identity is central to the episode. The artisans discuss how their work reflects their personal identities and cultural backgrounds. They also talk about how craft can be used to explore and express identity.
Tradition vs. Innovation
The episode also explores the tension between tradition and innovation in craft. The artisans discuss the importance of preserving traditional techniques, but also the need to incorporate modern design elements and techniques to keep craft relevant in the modern world.
Community
The episode highlights the importance of community in the world of craft. The artisans talk about the supportive communities they are a part of and how these communities help them grow and develop as artists.
The Impact
The episode showcases the diversity and richness of American craft and highlights the importance of craft in expressing and reflecting cultural identity. It also shows how craft can be used to bridge cultural divides and bring people together.
The Conclusion
Craft In America Season 9 Episode 2 is a fascinating exploration of the role of craft in expressing and reflecting cultural identity. The featured artisans are all incredibly talented and their work is beautiful and thought-provoking. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in American craft and the role it plays in our culture.
