For 20 years, Betsy Kubie, founder of home-based Crafts America Inc. in Greens Farms, has been the very heart of some of the country”™s most-regarded craft shows.
She is about to celebrate the 15th year of her Westchester Craft Show, the sibling of her shows in West Palm Beach, Fla., and Washington, D.C., her original hometown.
Kubie’s dream had long been to open a major exhibition of fine contemporary crafts in the New York metropolitan area. She realized that dream in 1994 when the “Westchester Craft Show” debuted in White Plains at the Westchester CountyCenter.Â
“Patrons can count on always finding unique things at our shows that are both unforgettable and irresistible,” said Kubie. “That’s why they come back year after year to see more.”
The Westchester Craft Show, on average, features more than 120 fine craft artists from 30 states exhibiting a wide range of work in many media, including glass, fiber, metals, wood, paper, jewelry and ceramics. The 2008 show is scheduled for Oct. 17-19.
Kubie got into the crafts show business after a career in interior design in New York City and Washington, D.C. She served as a volunteer and then professional coordinator of the Westport Handcrafts Show, before establishing Crafts America.
“It brings, I think, the opportunity for people to see beautiful work from artists all over the country,” said Kubie.
Kubie has gained a reputation for attracting the elite in artisans and ensuring top quality by not allowing approvals from previous years to carry over.
According to Kubie, there is also the benefit of these artists knowing that they will be surrounded by the best of their peers. They bring their A-game.
“It gives the patrons an opportunity to meet the artists,” said Kubie. “Shows give a sort of personal approach to buying a piece. It also allows for people to commission work to be done to their specifications. I don”™t know where else in the world you can find that.”
According to Kubie, her business model was based serving the needs of two groups of people, talented artists who are looking for ways to market their work, and discriminating buyers who are looking for unique and exceptional art.Â
To become a featured artist in the Crafts America shows, crafters must submit an application and slides of their work to a jury of peers and professionals in the field. According to Kubie, the rigorous jury process ensures that a high level of quality is maintained, drawing favorable comparisons for Crafts America with the best museum-sponsored shows in the country.
“Many of our artists are mixing traditional methods with modern technology, and they enjoy interacting with people who appreciate the broad scope of their work and want to learn more about how it’s done,” said Kubie. “Many of the exhibitors at our Washington show choose to also exhibit in Westchester. They are developing a very appreciative clientele in the Westchester and Fairfield area.”
