In mid-2011 I donated the Handmade Nation archives to the Museum of Contemporary Craft in Portland, OR for an exhibit 75 Gifts for 75 Years. I had collected so much stuff while working on the project during my research and while traveling during the filming process and then during all the screenings. So many of the events had beautiful handmade posters, postcards, flyers, tickets and ephemera which was all packaged up and sent along with the original unedited tapes. Also donated were many elements from the stop motion opening sequence and hand-sewn banners, plus promotional items I had made for fundraising during the production. Over-all it was a lot of memories to let go of, but I feel confident that it should all stay together in a place that could be accessed.
It really was a closing of a chapter for me sending all the boxes off to Portland and it feels really good knowing that Handmade Nation has a home in such a fantastic space.
The archives are now part of the Museum's permanent collection. Any researcher can make an appointment to access items in our archive, including the Handmade Nation materials. The catalog will be available in early 2012 from the museum.
A special thanks goes out to the museum's curator Namita Gupta Wiggers who's continual support for Handmade Nation has been very encouraging in my work.
A special thanks goes out to the museum's curator Namita Gupta Wiggers who's continual support for Handmade Nation has been very encouraging in my work.
Installation view, 75 Gifts for 75 Years, Museum of Contemporary Craft, Portland, OR, 2011.
Photo Credit: Justin Tunis.
Although I am working on a new film and book I continue to do workshops and lecturing surrounding community, making, DIY and craft. Please keep track of my going on's on my blog & via twitter @faythelevine
Happy New Year everyone-- 2012 can you believe it?!
Warmly,
Faythe Levine
