Craft in America: Romanticism or Realistic View

Part I:

Choose one video from this week's Craft in America series and discuss the subjects' description and perceptions of craft work in 2 paragraphs or more. How does the subject portray this kind of work? Do they present a romantic or realistic view? Explain your choice and provide specific details from the video that demonstrate your views. As a reminder on the definition of "romanticism" as it relates in literary interpretation:

 Romanticism

●     Values freedom and the democratic spirit

●     Expresses admiration of everyday workers and common people

●     Exalts and idealizes nature and the natural world

●     Uses poetry, art, craft, etc. as personal self-expression

Part II:

Respond to the thoughts and ideas of at least two of your peers by commenting, asking a question, or sharing a connection. Responses should be at least three sentences in length.

Be sure to read the rubric so you understand how you’ll be evaluated. Responses that are limited to a sentence or two, and do not make connections with course content will not meet requirements. Be sure to reach out to your instructor if you have questions!

Craft in America is a PBS television series which vividly depicts the traditions surrounding handmade items in the United States. We are focusing on the episode called “Industry (Handmade in the Creative Economy).” The episode is located in the Week 2 Video folder. These links will take you to the stories of the people depicted in the episode so you may explore them in greater detail. Be sure to watch the episode in full, and explore the website for additional context.