What is a juried craft show? (originally posted 7 November 2017)

For many makers in Newfoundland and Labrador, the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador (CC L) Christmas Craft Fair is a big deal.  For The Purple Raven Boutique, it is our biggest show of the year and our lone juried show.  Sometimes I'm asked what being "juried" means.

Participants in a juried show have had to meet standards of quality as set by the organization planning the show.  In this instance all participants will have had to  submit samples of work months before the show along with documentation describing their materials and methods and satisfy quality standards as set out by the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador. If a maker is using original or traditional techniques, or historical patterns, being technically adept is not enough.  A maker must also demonstrate sufficient originality in approach so the hand of the maker is evident.

What this means for show visitors is they can have confidence in the quality of the products as well as the integrity of the makers.  It also means that there will be variety in style and approach to every maker's work whether it is clay, fiber, metal, paper or other medium.  
The Purple Raven Boutique will be at the Jack Byrne Arena for the 44th CCNL Christmas Craft Fair starting at 10 a.m. on November 9th.  If you are looking for original, well-made, quality gifts made in Newfoundland and Labrador, this is definitely an event you won't want to miss!