Decorative Arts & Crafts

Also referred to as decorative arts, crafts are objects made by hand that either have a functional or decorative purpose and are categorized as visual arts. An individual who creates crafts, or engages in the decorative arts, is referred to as a craftsperson, artisan, designer-craftsperson, fiber artist, studio potter, blacksmith, glassblower, etc. Depending on the specialization of the craftsperson, an understanding of certain materials, among them clay, fiber, glass, metal, and wood, is necessary. Likewise, a variety of tools and techniques associated with the process must also be among the knowledge base of such artists. The links included herein relate specifically to decorative arts and crafts.