FILM

Aurora Picture Show presents Handmade Nation. Co-presented with Houston Center for Contemporary Craft and Lawndale Art Center.

Today’s craft world has emerged as a synthesis of historical technique, punk culture, and the DIY ethos, and is also influenced by traditional handiwork, modern aesthetics, politics, feminism and art. Filmmaker, Faythe Levine traveled to 15 cities and covered more than 19,000 miles to interview artists, crafters, makers, curators and community members for her film Handmade Nation. It captures the tightly knit community that exists through websites, blogs, and online stores that connect to the greater public through independent boutiques, galleries and craft fairs.

Levine’s interviews were conducted on location in artist studios, homes, boutiques, offices and craft fairs, giving the public an exclusive and rarely seen look into the lives of these creative individuals.

Come early for the film to enjoy a beer from St. Arnold Brewing Company and make a fun paper craft with volunteers from Etsy Houston. Handmade Nation books will be for sale from Domy Books. The screening starts at 7:00 PM and lasts an hour.

Jenine Bressner, a glass artist who is featured in Handmade Nation, will participate in a panel discussion following the screening. Her exhibition, Inverted Harmony: A Handmade Environment by Jenine Bressner, is on view at Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, January 22 – March 13, 2011.

Special thanks to Do713.com for their support of this program. Presented by Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Aurora Picture Show, and Lawndale Art Center, with generous support from St. Arnold Brewing Company, Etsy Houston, and Domy Books.