Gloucester voted in top 10 US best cities/towns for arts and crafts!
Gloucester, the oldest fishing port in the US (and still richly operational), and Rocky Neck, the oldest and most established artists’ colony in America, can now add the prestigious title of best place for arts and crafts recognized by the organizers of American Craft Week, the nation’s largest annual craft celebration.
American Craft Week is a national, grassroots program designed to promote and celebrate fine handmade American craft. Produced by a committee of CRAFT (Craft Retailers and Artists of Tomorrow), it began in 2010, and last year included over 1,000 events in all 50 states!
Gloucester’s notable recognition is sponsored by American Craft Week and voted on by arts’ and crafts’ aficionados across the Country.
Only one of two cities in the East awarded this acknowledgement (along with Brattleboro, Vermont), Gloucester is a straight drive on 128 North or a train ride (less than one hour) from Boston. In addition to a breathtaking unobstructed ocean drive, Gloucester is home to some of the best beaches; boasting a plethora of hotels, B&Bs and countless restaurants and pubs per block, including fresh lobsters; an unrivaled music scene, and the renowned Gorton Theater bringing international talent for many first-run shows. Movies (e.g., Perfect Storm, Manchester by the Sea, Olive Kittredge) are always in production, somewhere in the city. “When we started American Craft Week, we wanted to involve galleries and festivals so we could draw the public’s attention to craft. But in the course of six years, our vision has become so much wider, mainly because craft in this country is so pervasive and exciting,” founder, Diane Sulg exclaims.
American Craft Week encompasses events in all fifty states. Several states, including Vermont, Maine and Virginia, have official celebrations backed by tourism and economic development dollars. In addition to the tangibles, Sulg noted “craft creates jobs for thousands of Americans. The impact of this creative economy is profound for individuals, communities and the entire nation.”
Donna Soodalter-Toman, the owner of DIVA (Donna’s Infinite Variety of Adornments), Main Street in Gloucester says of her love for working and living in Gloucester, “I have been drawn to Gloucester as a crafter, collector, beach and music junky for over 40 years. Now a resident, I make the ocean a big part of my daily routine as I watch painters search for inspiration by the seashore and I find sea glass to incorporate into my pieces. I adore the diversity of the people; their warmth, spirit and authenticity – No turning back, ever. I’m thrilled that our city received this prestigious award and look forward to welcoming visitors to Gloucester all year round!”
For information on Gloucester happenings, including; open studios, artists, crafters, galleries, fairs, fiestas and where to stay and play, contact Discover Gloucester at info@DiscoverGloucester.com.
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Enjoy half-priced admission and special programs-Shark and Aquarium Feeding at 2:00 pm and Fish Printing at 3:00pm. Also, Ardelle is sailing at 1:00 pm. Book your trip 
You won’t want to miss Jim’s farewell or this colorful record of Paul’s trip — come early for a good seat, good…
Good Morning Gloucester 