There is an ongoing debate about the difference between art and craft. This Saturday, as I participated in the Amherst craft fair "Art on the Common," I continued the debate in my head. As I watched people shop, as I talked to my customers and as I sold my quilts I came to the conclusion that the number one difference between an artist and a crafter is that I assume I will be able to sell my work unlike my artist friends who work on their art for art's sake and not for money's sake. Birch trees are in, so I make birch tree wall hangings. Ok, it is true that I like birch trees and I do like my design and choice of color. I sold all but one. My local landscapes sold out. I will make more.

But what about all the "crazy" ideas I have in my head? Well the other difference between art and craft is that crafts will fit in a tent. My more artistic ideas will only fit in a large space. They won't even fit in my house. This fall I am going to set aside time for my art. I will experiment more in between the times I am sewing what I know will sell. I will meet with my art quilter friends to talk about design and theory.


However, I have to admit that selling out of my products is cool, I loved the customer interactions I had and I am very thankful to all the people who support and encourage me.
I can be both a crafter and an artist. I know I can.