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In our age of technology and mass production, the exquisitely handcrafted, one-of-a-kind object continues to delight the imagination and inspire reverence. Objects for Use is the first panoramic survey of American contemporary craft in over a decade, and the only one now in print.

The more than 300 objects by 200 artists run the full gamut of function. They include glass, ceramics, interior furnishings and accessories, kitchen utensils and knives, quilts, musical instruments, games and toys, fishing gear, and more. Accompanying a major exhibition at the American Craft Museum in New York City, this matchless volume pays tribute to a culturally diverse group of craftspeople -- and a uniquely American spirit of creativity.

When good design is applied to everyday objects, it imbues daily life with aesthetic pleasure and significance. This wonderful book presents the work of over 200 American artisans, designers, and artists who ply their trades in small studio settings, producing beautiful objects ranging from hand-forged knives to furniture to surf boards. Some of the work is done by hand and some by mechanical means, but all reflect attention to individual detail and are intended for daily use. Opening with in-depth profiles of 25 contributors, the work is presented in three sections: "Objects for Food and Dining," "Objects for Interior Space," and "Objects for Sports, Music, and Play." The book includes brief biographies of each contributor. Two informative essays give a history of handmade objects in America, describe the special sacrifices and joys of a life dedicated to making this work, and celebrate the marriage of design and craft that results in the creation of such special and useful objects. Filled with color photographs of singular and captivating examples, this book is a great resource of current artisans and will surely inspire generations of makers. Recommended for large public and academic collections. Debora Miller, Minneapolis Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.

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Master knife makers, wood craftsmen, basket makers, ceramics and textiles designers, glassblowers, surfboard and dogsled makers, metalsmiths and a host of other artisans have their day in Objects for Use: Handmade by Design, edited by Paul J. Smith, director emeritus of the American Craft Museum, which will house an exhibit by the same name. There are essays by the editor and Akiko Busch, studio profiles of 25 artists and thick sections on "Objects for Food and Dining" and "Objects for Interior Space," with 375 illustrations (350 full-color) representing approximately 200 artists. This handsome volume provides an overview of the contemporary American craft world, situating it in an artistic and industrial history. Smith cites European influences and important centers of American craftsmanship like Black Mountain College and Rochester Institute of Technology. (Nov.) Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.