Changing Gallery II

The Best of Tennessee Craft: 2012 TACA Biennial Exhibition       

A juried exhibition featuring the finest work of Tennessee artists opens to the public at the museum on August 24. Entitled The Best of Tennessee Craft: The 2012 TACA Biennial, the free exhibit will showcase the outstanding crafts of the Volunteer State.

The exhibit includes 100 juried pieces from 63 artists from across the state. In additional to such traditional crafts such as textiles, ceramics and woodworking, the exhibit also features sculpture and photographs.

The work included in the exhibition was selected by Atlanta gallery owner Martha Connell, who has years of experience as the owner/director of the Connell Gallery/Great American Gallery. She has curated several exhibitions in the US and abroad, as well as served as a juror for many prestigious shows throughout the South.

"For decades, the State Museum has worked with TACA to honor and celebrate our exceptional craftspeople," Lois Riggins-Ezzell, the museum’s executive director, said. "The Volunteer State has long treasured, embraced and nurtured its vibrant community of craft artists, from the majestic mountains of east Tennessee to the banks of the mighty Mississippi. We are once again delighted to feature Tennessee’s finest craft artists and look forward to presenting their exceptional work."

"We are honored to collaborate once again with the Tennessee State Museum to showcase work of Tennessee’s finest craft artists," says TACA Executive Director Teri Alea. Works from TACA’s private collection’s Master Artists Olen Bryant, Sylvia Hyman and others will also be shown. "The exhibit exemplifies the extraordinary craft of Tennessee artists – recognizing the best of traditional and contemporary craft. This show is a must-see for all admirers of the handmade," Alea said.

The Best of Tennessee Craft: The 2012 TACA Biennial will be on view through October 21, 2012. TACA organizes the event every other year to provide public visibility for its members. More information about the exhibit, directions to the museum and hours, can be found at tnmuseum.org or by calling (615) 741-2692


Top right: Carol LeBaron (Carter County), Repurposed. Wool, cotton Jacquard tapstry, and acid dye 

Above left: Michael Albin (Cumberland County), Field of Flowers. Photograph and acrylic paint on wood

For more pictures click here
For more imformation contact Mary Skinner at mary.skinner@tn.gov