October 2008
Craft Connections
Littleton Studio School: Bringing Hands-on
Craft Education into the Community
“I was so excited that I couldn’t sleep that
night!” That’s how Mary Lou Forsyth felt
after attending the first night of a pottery
class at the new Littleton Studio School,
which is affiliated with the League of NH
Craftsmen Littleton Retail Gallery.
Since it opened its doors in August, the
Littleton Studio School has been offering
classes and workshops in jewelry, pottery,
monoprinting, and basketry in a spacious,
light-filled space. The Studio School, located
just a few steps away from the Littleton
Retail Gallery and across from the Ammonoosuc
inside
President’s Message . . . . . . . . . . 2
From the Executive Director
2009 Annual Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Member News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Fair Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Collector Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . 9
New York Times Travel . . . . . . . 10
Show Solicitation
Lifetime Achievement . . . . . . . . 11
Award Exhibition
Bird Carving by Ira Frost
space came up, we pursued it
and developed a business plan
to make it work,” said Jeff.
“We have received
tremendous support from the
League, New Hampshire
Potters Guild, the New
Hampshire Charitable
Foundation, Jane’s Trust, and
Littleton Studio School jewelry individual craftspeople. We are
class student
extremely grateful to Martha Hill, an
And in the three months that it has been
experienced fundraiser and grant writer, ,
open, the Studio School has added classes
who was instrumental in helping us get the
to meet the demand. “Many of our students
funding we needed to open the studio.”
come in because of the Littleton Retail Gallery,
The Studio School currently has six pottery
and we also get some tourists who are
wheels and a kiln for pottery classes, and
visiting this area,” said Tina Gorman, the
several work areas for jewelry and other
Studio School’s educational coordinator.
craft classes. Tina Gorman serves as
“Local artists are excited because it gives
Education Coordinator for the Studio School.
them an opportunity to share their skills
Craftsperson and potter Lilias Ide and juried
and meet and work with other artists.”
League member and jewelry studio
coordinator Jean Matray oversee classes
"You can feel the enthusiasm
and activities in their respective areas.
River, is filling a need in the
community. “I haven’t touched
clay since taking pottery
classes in college almost 25
years ago. There hasn’t been
anything available in this area
for anyone interested in
pottery, so when I heard about
this class, I rushed to sign up,”
said Mary Lou.
in the classroom."
Having a studio school was always a goal
for Littleton Retail Gallery owner Jeff
Wheeler and managers Michele Allison
and Beth Simon. “After we established
the retail gallery, Beth and Michele, being
craftspeople, expressed an interest in having
a studio,” said Jeff. “My wife took pottery
classes at the Hanover Retail Gallery when
we lived in that area, so having a studio in
Littleton was also very much in my mind.”
Once the Retail Gallery was up and running,
the trio continued to discuss the idea and
evaluate possible locations. “When the right
Jean and Lilias, with input from Beth and
Michele, worked with Tina to develop the
curriculum, which includes four core classes
in jewelry and six core classes in pottery
that run over a period of three months, and
several one- and two-day workshops in
jewelry, pottery, and other media. Most are
for those with no prior experience, and
some classes are designed for children.
“You can feel the enthusiasm in the
classroom,” said Jean. “The classes are very
hands-on. The students learn technique and
continued on page 3
League of NH Craftmen
205 North Main Street, Concord, NH 03301
T: 603-224-3375 F: 603-225-8452
E-Mail: nhleague@nhcrafts.org
www.nhcrafts.org
B OA R D O F T R U S T EE S
Beverly Wolf, President
Arts Advocate, Newbury, NH
Adele Sanborn, Vice President
Craftsperson, Webster, NH
Nancy Wyatt, Treasurer
Finance Professional, Concord, NH
Cynthia Hunt, Secretary
Grant Writer, Concord, NH
Parker Potter, Immediate Past President
Law Clerk, Contoocook, NH
Polly Allen
Arts Advocate, Lebanon, NH
Charles P. Bauer
Attorney, Concord, NH
Ingeborg Eddy
Retired, Craft Retail Sales, Hopkinton, NH
Edith Grodin
Arts Advocate, Jaffrey, NH
Donna Hiromura, Co-Chair of Fair Committee,
Craftsperson, Cavendish, VT
George Saridakis
Chair of Standards Committee
Craftsperson, Groton, MA
Carol Shelton
Arts Advocate, Hopkinton, NH
Pamela Tarbell
Artist, Gallery Owner, Concord, NH
Ron Tornow, Chair of JMF
Craftsperson, Merrimack, NH
Peter Van Winkle
Retired Finance Professional, Center Sandwich, NH
Jeff Wheeler
Business Professional, Littleton, NH
L E AG U E S TA F F
Susie Lowe-Stockwell, Executive Director
slowstoc@nhcrafts.org
Joyce Andrews, Office Manager
jandrews@nhcrafts.org
Prudence Gagne, Finance Director
pgagne@nhcrafts.org
Catherine Green,
Standards & Education Manager
cgreen@nhcrafts.org
Sharon Lindstrom,
Database and Computer Manager
slindstrom@nhcrafts.org
Shelley Roy, Assistant to the Executive Director
sroy@nhcrafts.org
Terri Wiltse, Operations Manager
twiltse@nhcrafts.org
Corinne Kennett, Clerical Assistant
ckennett@nhcrafts.org
Pam Sullivan, Sullivan Creative
Communications Consultant
pam@sullivancreative.com
2
P r e s i d e n t ’ s M e ssag e
The month of November is synonymous
with giving thanks, and so, I am appreciative
of many things about the League. These
uncertain economic times are a reminder
that the League of NH Craftsmen was formed
because of the Depression, and has served
its craftsmen and members for over 75
years. We are so fortunate to live in a state
that encourages fine craft. Our lives are
cheered by the beautiful, functional items
created by our juried members and their
students. Our excellent craftsmen continue
to lead the way by upholding the League’s
high standards and with their dedication to
our history and our future goals. I am grateful
for the supporting members who generously
help us advance our mission of education
and the continuation of making fine craft.
Those of us who love and belong to the
League are lucky, as we are part of an
organization comprised of wonderful and
talented people, beautiful items to enhance
our daily lives, and the promise of this
richness to be present in the lives of our
children and grandchildren. Thanks to all of
you, for your commitment, interest and
support. 
Bev Wolf
President, League of NH Craftsmen
from th e e x e cut i v e d i r e ctor
E
ducation about fine craft is at the core of everything that the League
does. Just before the Fair, I sent a letter to all of the high schools,
libraries, and museums in New Hampshire recommending ideas
for educational programs, including showing our documentary
film. As a result, we heard from two museums, 26 libraries,
and eight high schools – all are interested in showing the
documentary and many have asked to have craftspeople
speak about and demonstrate their craft.
Standards and Education Manager Catherine Green has
compiled a list of juried members who are willing to
provide craft demonstrations and workshops. This is the
first step in our Craft in the Classroom program. The League’s
Center Sandwich, Hanover, Littleton and Meredith council
locations are currently providing excellent craft classes for
children and adults at all levels of ability. These educational programs
are vital for preserving the tradition of fine craft in New Hampshire. The Plate by Becca Van Fleet
Vivika and Otto Heino Scholarship is available to assist individuals with tuition at Leaguesponsored education programs, as well as in other approved craft education centers. So take a
class and keep the tradition going. 
Susie Lowe-Stockwell
Executive Director, League of NH Craftsmen
Juror Seminar: October 21
The Standards Committee hosted a Juror Seminar for League jurors Tuesday, October 21
at Horseshoe Pond Place. The day began by reviewing the new Juror Handbook, which
was initiated by the Standards Committee. Following a bag lunch, the standards
committee members presented sample jury sessions exploring various scenarios jurors
face. The third part of the seminar was an open discussion focusing on identifying,
understanding and communicating what the League means by Spirit of the Maker. 
2009 Annual Fund
We Need Your Help! Keep the Heritage of Fine Craftsmanship Alive
Littleton Studio School: Bringing
Hands-on Craft Education into the
Community continued from page 1
affiliated retail galleries, and to high school
students planning to major in a craft at
college. We also offer classes and workshops
to people of all ages so they can gain a
better understanding of the traditions
and processes involved in creating fine
handcrafted work. None of this would
be possible without your support!
then get to apply it. An engaged couple
recently took our ring class just so that they
could make wedding rings for each other.”
The Studio School also offers open studio
time for pottery students, and guided open
sessions for jewelry students to work on
their own projects with guidance and
assistance from the instructor.
That’s why our 2009 Annual Fund is so
important. It raises funds for our extensive
scholarship and education programs, and it
also supports Gallery 205 exhibitions,
operational expenses, and the purchase of
books for the Betty Steele Craft Library.
Your gift to our 2009 Annual Fund helps to
ensure the future of fine craftsmanship —
by offering craftspeople the chance to reach
new levels of excellence, encouraging an
appreciation for crafts, and enabling the
League to achieve its goal of being one of
the preeminent craft organizations in the
country.
Current Littleton Studio School instructors
include juried members of the League, such
as Jean, Carol Babineau, Shana
Brautigam, Alison Dodd, and Joy Raskin,
and other skilled craftspeople from the
Littleton area, such as Cathy Cushing, John
Quimby, and Carol Sandhammer-Pires.
The League awards close to $30,000 each
year in scholarships and grants to
individuals who want to further their
education, to support classes in the League’s
If you wish to support the League,
you can make a donation online at
www.nhcrafts.org/support/annualfund.html
or use the enclosed giving envelope. 
Throughout its history, the League has been
working to promote the creation, use, and
preservation of fine contemporary and
traditional craft through the inspiration
and education of artists and the broader
community. To keep the heritage of fine
craftsmanship alive — and to offer
exceptional opportunities for artists and
individuals in our communities — we
need your help.
The League Emergency Relief Fund
The League Emergency Relief Fund (LERF) is a fund administered by the League of NH
Craftsmen to assist professional craftspeople who have suffered a disaster that significantly
interrupts or prevents them from making their craft and living, and for whom said disaster
creates an emergency situation and need for immediate relief funds. The craftsperson must be
a permanent resident of the United States. If you would like more information about a loan
please contact Susie Lowe-Stockwell, executive director at the League at slowstoc@nhcrafts.org
or call 603-224-3375. 
League Welcomes New Members to the Board
of Trustees
The League is pleased to announce that Polly Allen and Peter Van Winkle have recently
joined the League’s Board of Trustees. Polly has been involved with the Hanover League
Council for many years as its president and served on the League board as Vice President
from 1999 – 2002. She has years of experience in the apparel industry specializing in
product development, merchandising, and design. Among her many volunteer activities,
she served as board member of the North Carolina Piedmont Craftsmen and board
member and executive director of the Kearsarge Arts Theatre Company in Sutton, NH.
Polly received the League’s Blackstone Volunteer award in 2003. Peter Van Winkle also
has strong ties to the League, as he serves as the President of the Sandwich Home
Industries League Council. He has a strong banking and financial investment
background, and is very enthusiastic about his work with the Sandwich Council.
Polly and Peter are filling the seats of former board members Jonathan Chorlian and
John Taylor, who stepped down from the board due to business commitments. John
Taylor continues to serve on our facilities committee during this important time. 
“We will continue to refine our program
based on what people are asking for,” said
Jean. “For example, some people asked
about making metal sculptures, so we are
planning a class with Joe DeRobertis
(juried League member) as an instructor.”
Jeff, Beth, and Michele have fulfilled their
primary objective, which was to establish a
studio that would appeal to students and
artists of all ages and skill levels and
featuring classes in various media. “We are
reaching out to the Littleton school system
and the local senior citizen facility to offer
our classes,” said Jeff. “People who are
interested in craft come to the Retail Gallery
all the time, so the Retail Gallery is a nice
conduit for the studio. Now we are working
to be a craft education conduit to the
community.”
To learn more, visit www.nhcrafts.org
and click on the Retail Galleries, then the
Littleton Retail Gallery. 
(From L to R) Lilias Ide, Tina Gorman, Susie LoweStockwell, and Leslie Wheeler at the Littleton
Studio School
3
m e mb e r n e ws
Hideaki Miyamura Receives NH State Council
on the Arts Fellows Award
Congratulations to Hideaki Miyamura for being
selected as one of five new Artists Fellows by the New
Hampshire State Council on the Arts (NHSCA). Hideaki received a
$5,000 award, which he will put to use in his craft and in sharing
his talents with the people of New Hampshire. Hideaki
has been conjuring up new glazes ever since his childhood in
Japan, where he came across Tenmoku glazes from China’s
Sung Dynasty. Right now he’s developing one he calls
“Yohen Crystal.” “My goal is to try to evoke a feeling of
inner peace and tranquility,” says Hideaki, who will use
the award funds to help offset costs of a new kiln.
Carnegie Museum, the Renwick Museum, and
the Pucker Gallery in Boston. “I create my own
interpretations of classical forms, while trying to achieve a clarity
and simplicity of line,” Hideaki says. “I am very conscious of the
ways in which a form interacts with the space around it. I want
my pieces to feel in balance with their environment, to feel as
though they co-exist naturally with their surroundings. When I
create my pieces, I hope to make people feel good when
they look at my work. My goal is to try to evoke a feeling
of inner peace and tranquility.”
The NHSCA grants fellowships in three categories:
Visual & Media Arts, Performing Arts, and Literary Arts.
Hideaki is a regular exhibitor at the Annual
Selections are made based on artistic excellence,
Craftsmen’s Fair. His simple and elegant displays, with
as determined by work samples and professional
white walls and a dozen or so vessels, draw repeat
commitment. As part of the fellowship requirement,
visitors and newcomers alike. He has been a juried
each fellow will present a Report to the New
member of the League since 1995 and was awarded
Hampshire Community, which can be a performance,
his first fellowship from the State Arts Council in
a reading, an exhibition, a blog, or some other form
2002. His work is collected by individuals,
of publicizing the artist’s work. The deadline to apply
corporations, and museums all over the world, from
for
a 2010 Artist Fellowship is April 10, 2009. To learn
New Zealand to Israel and Tokyo to Vienna, but he is
Vase by Hideaki Miyamura
more, contact the NHSCA at 2 1/2 Beacon Street, Suite 225,
most proud of his representation in collections at the
Concord, NH 03301-4447 or visit www.nh.gov/nharts. 
Sackler Museum at Harvard, the Art Institute of Chicago, the
Minneapolis Museum of Art, the American Craft Museum, the
Two Rug Makers Join League’s
Juried Membership
The League is pleased to announce that two rug makers have
become newly accepted juried members: Victor Joos (Milton,
NH), who hooks rugs using wide cut fabric and yarn, and Mary
Jane Peabody (Wilmot, NH), who makes rugs using both
rug-hooking and the traditional English technique of proddy
rug-making.
Rug hooking has a rich legacy in the League of NH Craftsmen.
According to Allen H. Eaton in his book, Handicrafts of New
England, “The acorn from which the League itself has grown
was planted in the village of Center Sandwich in 1925 when a
committee of Mrs. J. Randolph Coolidge held an exhibition of
one hundred old and new hooked rugs, all of which had been
made in the town of Sandwich.”
This fall, juries are scheduled for the following categories:
Non-Metal/Metal/Glass Jewelry, Turned Wood, Furniture,
Glass, Leather, Clay, and Fiber/Knitting/Felting, and Paper. 
4
Statewide League
Documentary
Viewings and Craft
Demonstrations
Eight high schools and 26 libraries
have requested copies of the
documentary film, A League of Our
Own: New Hampshire and the
American Craft Movement. Several
public libraries have requested a
craft demonstration on the day of
the showing, including the North
Hampton Public Library, The Howe Library, the Gilford Public Library,
the Nashua Public Library, the Hampstead Public Library, and the
Chamberlain Library. Our League demonstrators have been Betsy
Sterling Benjamin, Sara Goodman, Sam Adams, Ruth Boland, and
Michele O’Neil Kincaid. Contact Catherine at cgreen@nhcrafts.org
if you would like to be a demonstrator. 
m e mb e r n e ws
Reflections by Kit Cornell
Each summer, the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts in Deer Isle,
Maine offers a conference on the subject of craft. This year’s topic
was The Language of Craft. As a potter, I am deeply interested in the
words and ideas that define, enhance, or critique my work, and so,
with the help of a grant from the League, I attended this three-day
conference. In the first evening’s discussion, I learned that the old art/
craft debate is not quite dead, but continues to be flogged by those for
whom it has a reassuring familiarity. (I continue to suspect that it may
be an issue of class.) Fortunately, a number of the younger attendees
who represent the “globalist” generation, changed the discussion, and
Kit Cornell
sought encouragement and advice about how to support themselves
making craft. I found their remarks relevant and compelling, reflecting that this is what the
League has always been about.
I came to this conference to hear what the other attendees – craftspeople, artists, writers, and
thinkers – believed were the essential qualities of craft, why we make craft, why it matters,
and why it should be celebrated. In his workshop and lecture, revered potter and writer Paulus
Berensohn celebrated clay as the basic stuff of the earth. He wedged it with his feet, took
it lovingly in his hands, and made lyrical pots with enthusiastic participants. This exercise
reminded me why the Asian Mingei movement is so close to my heart. Craftspeople transform
simple and natural materials – a log, twisted fiber, thin reed, base metal, silkworm’s silk –
into beautiful, meaningful objects.
Many attendees referenced Richard Sennett’s new book, The Craftsman, which defines
craftsmanship as the desire to do a job well for its own sake. That resonated with me. Isn’t
this a motive in embracing craft as a calling? (Juried League member and woodworker
Gordon Keeler came to my mind.) Sennett also believes that making, at its best, is also
thinking. Frank R. Wilson’s book, The Hand, also emphasizes the relationship between the
mind and the hand. The word intellect comes from intellegere, the Latin word for
understanding. A craftsperson seeks to understand her/his materials and use them with
thought. Also quoted during the conference was Anne Carson, an original thinker and poet
from Canada, who stated that art is a “transgressive act.” What, then, I wondered, is craft?
Upon reflection, I came to the understanding that being a craftsperson provides choices of
how to live and what to value. For me, craft does inspire change, but I see it as more
transformative than transgressive. I came home with a button on my lapel, given to me by
young activist metalworker from Virginia, which says Revolution in white letters on black.
I got what I came for. I welcome your comments via email at kit@kitcornellpottery.com. 
Juried Members: Create
a Bio Card Online!
The League has recently added a new
feature to its website that will enable juried
members to create brief bio cards that can
be viewed by the website visitors (on the
Juried Members page, when your name is
selected), and that the retail galleries can
download, print, and include with fine craft
purchases. Each juried League member is
assigned a username and password, which is
used to access the Members Only section of
the League website. The Members Only
section can be accessed through Log-in
buttons on the home page and the Juried
Members page of the website. Once you
log-in, you will see a button: Update My
Profile, which will then give you access
to an interactive form with fields for your
name, craft medium, a brief bio (150 words),
listing of retail galleries that have your craft,
listing of events you are participating in, and
an image of your work. Your entry will be
proofread after you have submitted your
information.
The Juried Members section of the website
also includes applications for participation
in the Fair, Gallery 205, NH Open Doors,
and other events, as well as scholarship
information and guidance documents. To
access the Juried Members section, please
contact Sharon Lindstrom at League
headquarters at slindstrom@nhcrafts.org,
or 603-224-3375 for your user name and
password. 
Members’ Educational Series Seminar Scheduled
for December 3
Kathleen Dustin and Al Jaeger, both of whom are League juried members, media jurors,
and standards committee members, will present a seminar on achieving successful
composition using the principles and elements of design, and integrated findings design for
non-metal jewelers. Kathleen will discuss guiding principles for designing your own earring
wires, findings, and alternative hanging solutions as well as demonstrating basic wire
working techniques for making them. Bring your own work and we’ll help you develop your
own line of jewelry by making your own findings. The seminar will be held on December
3 at the Horseshoe Pond Place. Watch for registration information. 
Polymer Evening Bag
by Kathleen Dustin
5
2 0 0 8 Fa i r h
The 75th Annual Craftsmen’s Fair Wrap-up
During the Fair Wrap-up meeting,
which was held on September 18
at League headquarters, everyone
acknowledged that it was a
beautiful, but wet, Fair. Attendance
was down 13 percent from the
previous year; however, we learned
that tourism throughout the state
was down by almost 25 percent
during August. The preliminary
financial results indicate that the
League was under net budget
projections. Clearly the weather and the economic climate made a
statement. Despite the wet weather, spirits were high during the
Fair. Everyone enjoyed the Fair’s 75th Birthday Bash by celebrating at
the craftsmen’s dinner, which featured fine entertainment by Tom
Rush and a spectacular fireworks display. The good news is that
many craftspeople had respectable sales based on the sales reports
received from 86 percent of booth
holders. Sales in CraftWear and
Living With Craft increased;
however all were under budget
projections. There were no sales in
the Sculpture Garden. The Shop at
the Fair did well, with preliminary
sales reported at $87,510. The
Annual Ornament sales totaled
$8,737. The Supporting Membership
drive at the Fair resulted in 75 new
supporting members and four
renewals. Sponsorships increased to $35,200 and were $2,700 over
budget projections. Daily education programs included 18 demonstrations,
five workshop opportunities, two daily master tours, five exhibitions,
and the showing of our documentary. If you would like a copy of the
Fair Wrap-up Report, please contact Joyce Andrews at
jandrews@nhcrafts.org or 603-224-3375. 
Craft Donations Help Make Fair Membership Drive a Success
The League is extremely grateful to craftspeople who generously donate a piece of their work during the Annual
Craftsmen’s Fair in support of our Membership Drive, which results in new supporting members and renewals.
The Fair – through its education programs, exhibitions, and individual craft booths – is our annual opportunity
to show prospective supporting members what the League’s mission is all about. The names of those who sign up
to be a supporting member at the Fair are entered into a raffle each day of the Fair. One of the enticements is the
opportunity to win a piece of fine craft.
Ornament by
Deirdre Donchian
Supporting membership levels range from $30 to $500 and they help to support the education and promotional programs
of the League. Since 2001, 54 craftspeople have donated a piece to be raffled off during the nine days at the Fair. 
"Rare Bird" Silent Auction Raises
Funds for League
A big thanks to the creators of Rare Bird – a progressive craft
piece made by Suzanne Connor (fiber), Kathleen Dustin
(polymer clay), Annette Frye (fiber), Jim Lambert (mixed
media), Nancy Nobis (non-metal jewelry), and
Patricia Palson (fiber) – that was auctioned at
the Fair. The making of Rare Bird was featured in a
YouTube video that invited fairgoers to see and bid on
"Rare Bird" at the CraftWear exhibition.
Virginia and Dennis Jenkins from Boston (MA) placed
the winning bid of $500. This money is supporting the
League Emergency Relief Fund (LERF is a fund of last
resort available to League juried craftspeople who have
suffered an extreme hardship). 
6
In Memoriam
Merle D. Walker,
director of the League
of NH Craftsmen from
1972-1982, passed
away on September 9 in
Princeton, NJ. Merle first
became involved with
the League as a manager of the former
League-affiliated shop in Exeter. Her
homes were always decorated with the
prints and pottery of New Hampshire
craftsmen. She was an arts
administrator who never lost her
appreciation for artists and their work. 
h i ghl i ghts
Exhibition Awards Recognize Excellence in Fine Craft
Twenty-three juried members of the League of NH Craftsmen were presented with awards for their exemplary work at this year's Annual
Craftsmen's Fair's three exhibitions: Living With Craft, CraftWear, and the Sculpture Garden. Kristen Lincoln Johnson, wholesale accounts
manager for Josh Simpson Contemporary Glass and a CraftBoston staff member, was the awards juror. The awards - totaling $6,350 in cash
and gift certificates – were presented during the Fair Preview Party on Friday, August 3. Here are the winners and award sponsors:
Living with Craft Awards
Craftwear Awards
Best in Show: Kathleen Dustin for Leek Blossom Pod,
sponsored by Corzilius, Matuszewski and Krause Architects, PA since 1987
Best of Show: Patricia Palson for Origami Coat,
sponsored by John & Jill Schiffman - Schiffman, Paul & Dittilio, PC
Best in Traditional Design: Peter Maynard for Bow Arm Morris Chair,
sponsored by Merrimack County Savings Bank
Best in Accessories: Nancy Horrall for Positive Outlook Hat,
sponsored by the Cordwainer Gallery of Fine Crafts
Best in Wood: Jeffrey Roberts for Cherry Desk,
sponsored by Guild of New Hampshire Woodworkers
Best in Jewelry: Caitlin Burch for Essential Neckpiece,
sponsored by the Cordwainer Gallery of Fine Crafts
E.L. Grodin Best Innovative Design: David Little and Steven
Hayden for Land and Sea Bedroom Set, sponsored by Edith L. Grodin
Best in Metal Jewelry: Joy Raskin for Silver Hedge Hog Bracelet,
sponsored by Eleanor "Tin" Bacon
Joe Tucker Metal Award: Paulette Werger for Arboreal Floor Vase,
sponsored by Nora and Norman Stevens
Best in Jewelry with Stone: Joy Raskin for Flames of Passion,
sponsored by Mark & Heidi Knipe of Mark Knipe Goldsmiths
Best in Two-Dimensional Design: Lauren Pollaro for Tapestry II,
sponsored by Loring Stevens
Best in Mixed Media Jewelry: Kathleen Dustin for Moss & Pods
Neckpiece, sponsored by Gondwana and Divine Clothing Co.
Stevens Glass Award: Tom Talpey for Table Lamp,
sponsored by Nora and Norman Stevens
Best in Clothing: Annette Frye for White Waterfall,
sponsored by the League Retail Gallery Managers
Best in Ceramics - Decorative: Susan Link Silverman for
Remains of Fire and Ice, sponsored by the NH Potters Guild since 1989
Creative Sewing Award: Beth Lux for Childhood,
sponsored by Arnold Goldstein of Martin's House of Cloth
Best in Ceramics - Functional: Ken Pick for Stoneware Table,
sponsored by the NH Potters Guild since 1989
Best in Fine Sewing: Beth Lux for Annabelle,
sponsored by Gretchen Rath of the Portsmouth Fabric Co.
Best in Baskets: Lynn Goldberg and Marcia Herson for
Dual Inspiration Sconce, sponsored by Polly Allen
Arts for All Award: Nancy Horrall for Lagoon Scarf,
sponsored by Governor's Commission on Disability
Best in Fiber: Wen Redmond for Crumpled,
sponsored by Skyeview Alpacas, Jim & Sue King
Dorr Mill Award: Annette Frye for Delphinium Shawl,
sponsored by Terry Dorr of the Dorr Mill Store
Best in Weaving: Erica Pfister for Krokbragd Rug,
sponsored by the NH Weavers Guild
Best Use of Color - Weaving: Patricia Palson for Boogie Woogie Jacket,
sponsored by Pam Grob of The Fiber Studio
Permanent Collection Purchase Award: Thomas Talpey for Table
Lamp, Anonymous sponsor
Weaving With Wool Award: Patricia Palson for Boogie Woogie Jacket,
sponsored by Pat Colony of Harrisville Designs
Most Creative Print: Matthew Brown for Snow on Cannon Mountain;
Anonymous sponsor
Elegant Ewe Best in Knitting: Debra Bury for Morning Dew,
sponsored by The Elegant Ewe
Public Choice Award: Jeffrey Roberts for his Cherry Desk,
sponsored by Davis & Towle Group
N.H. Institute of Art Award: Patricia Palson for Origami Coat,
sponsored by the N.H. Institute of Art
Sculpture Garden Awards
Public Choice Award: Patricia Palson for Origami Coat, sponsored
by the Cordwainer Gallery
Best in Show: Iris Minc for Lotus Leaves,
sponsored by Vahan and Anne Sarkisian
Public Choice Award: Iris Minc for Lotus Leaves,
sponsored by Bob and Rita Cricenti
The League is grateful to the
award sponsors for their support.
Ceramic Vessel by Natalie Blake
Awards Given for Booth Presentation
Each year the Fair Committee asks three outside professionals in the fine craft field to evaluate the
individual booths at the Fair for overall presentation. The best booth presentation awards were
presented to Natalie Blake, Sharon Dugan and Gail Wilson. Honorable mentions went to:
Kathleen Curtin, Philip Jacobs, Mary-Alice Dalton, Dan Dustin, Andy Hampton, Steve Hayden
& Dave Little, and Nina Zotcavage. 
7
2 0 0 8 Fa i r h i ghl i ghts
Andy Hampton Receives Blackstone
Volunteer Recognition Award
Since 1979, one of the most important honors presented by
the League is the Blackstone Volunteer Recognition Award,
which acknowledges the selfless efforts of a League volunteer.
Juried member Andy Hampton was presented with the
2008 Blackstone Volunteer Recognition Award at the
Craftsmen’s dinner during the Fair. Andy has been a juried
member in ceramics since 1998. To quote the nominators:
“Andy is a selfless volunteer working for the goals and
Bev Wolf and Andy Hampton
mission of the League. He possesses a cheerful, open, tactful
manner in discussions and shows unusual warmth when working with others. He has put the
welfare of the organization ahead of his own goals, and dutifully served an additional year as
Juried Member Forum chair and vice president of the Board of Trustees.” “Andy accepts his
various jobs with good humor and a positive attitude which he uses to influence others.”
This award was originally established in honor of Edie Blackstone, a former League staff
member, who became one of the League’s most dedicated volunteers after she retired. Her
husband, Jess Blackstone, was a wood carver in the League for many years. Past recipients
of this award include: Betty Miller, Bea Caldwell, Dot Strong, Esther Newell, Richard
Johnson, Marjorie Barry, Louisa & Robert Miner, Aurise Randall-Batchelder, Kevin
Plunkett, Jeanne Holmes, Edith Grodin, Marjorie Dehls, Kira Fournier & Maureen Mills,
Robert J. Sylvia, Ginger Parsons, Deborah Grant, Roger Roberge, Eleanor "Tin" Bacon,
A. Susie Gray, Jeanne Holmes, Gail Wilson, Adele Sanborn, Sheri Ensign, Parker Potter
& Steve Zoldak, Polly Allen, Ruth Burt, Jack Holton, Cynthia Hunt, and Ingeborg Eddy.
Now Andy Hampton has been added to this list.
Each year, the League receives nominations for those people who have given to the League in
extraordinary ways to support craftspeople and craft education. The final selection is made by
the executive committee of the Board. A nomination form is available on the League’s website
in the password-protected juried member section. 
Obergs Step Down as Fair Volunteer Coordinators
Thank you to Bill and Betty Oberg for serving as the Volunteer Coordinators for the Annual
Craftsmen’s Fair for the past eight years. Unfortunately for the League, Bill and Betty are
retiring. They have done a wonderful job of recruiting and maintaining a strong group of
nearly 100 dedicated volunteers who enthusiastically assisted the craftspeople and League
staff during the Fair. We will miss you! 
Collectors Seminar
A panel of avid collectors of fine craft, moderated
by Mary McLaughlin, VP of TD Banknorth,
discussed their experiences and personal
passions, how to get started, what to look
for in a collection and the advantages from a
financial and personal perspective of investing
in fine craft. Panel participants included:
Brooke Adler, Ben Schore and Joanne Wise. 
8
Thank you to the
Fair Sponsors
Thank you to all of the Fair sponsors,
including those who contributed over
$150,000 of in-kind services and
materials:
E. Tin Bacon
Cabot Creamery
Deck Dock Home & Garden
Dorr Mill Store
The Sheri Ensign Family Trust
GLM - a dmg world media business
Grappone Automotive Group
Edith L Grodin
Judith Goodnow & Michael Bujnowski
Laconia Savings Bank
Lake Sunapee Bank
LaValley Building Supply
Mascoma Savings Bank
Mount Sunapee Resort
Tim & Diane Mueller
North Country Smokehouse
James Russell
Secure Planning, Inc.
Sugar River Bank
Sullivan Creative
Sunapee Harbor Cottages
Beverly and Daniel Wolf
In-Kind Sponsors:
Accent Magazine
Polly Allen
American Style Magazine
Atlas PyroVision
The Balsams Resort
C.S. Rowe LLC
Comcast
Echo Communications, Inc.
Green Mountain Coffee
Hannaford Supermarket
Morgan Press
New England Home Magazine
New Hampshire.Com
New Hampshire Magazine
New London Hospital
NH Master Gardeners
Papergraphics
Spring Ledge Farm
Sullivan Creative
Sunflower Gardens
Vermont Ceramic Supply
Warner House
WMUR-TV
Yankee Magazine
Collector Spotlight: Passionate Collectors…
Generous Donors: Nora & Norman Stevens
“I was born the same year as the League of
NH Craftsmen was founded. My parents
brought me to the Fair at least once while I
was a child, so it seemed fitting to celebrate
the League’s 75th anniversary and my
birthday by creating a challenge to acquire
75 new pieces for the League’s Permanent
Collection,” said Norman Stevens.
“We contacted Executive Director Susie
Lowe-Stockwell and Standards and
Education Manager Catherine Green, and
everyone was thrilled with the idea, so we
were off and running,” Norman continued.
Norman and his wife Nora spearheaded the
campaign and became members of the
League’s Permanent Collection Advisory
Committee.
Remarkably generous with their time,
talents, and treasures, the Stevens donated
52 pieces to the Permanent Collection over
the year. Included are exquisite baskets,
glass and ceramic vases, wall hangings,
ceramic cups, brooches and earrings made
by craftspeople including Deidre Donchian,
Dudley Giberson, Raymond and Jonathan
Gibson, and Linda Hartman. Additional
pieces were donated by the craftsmen and
other collectors. The challenge has actually
exceeded the goal. To date, more than 82
donations of fine craft have been added to
the collection.
Gallery 205, located at League headquarters
in Concord, hosted an exhibition of the
newly acquired pieces entitled The
Permanent Collection: 75
Pieces for 75 Years from
May 9 – August 13, 2008.
Growing up in Nashua,
Norman was surrounded by
some beautiful antiques
that his parents had
collected. He married Nora
while they were students
at Rutgers University and
in 1968 they moved to
Storrs, Connecticut, where
Nora was coordinator of
the K–8 library system in Mansfield, and
Norman joined the staff of the University of
Connecticut Libraries, becoming Director of
University Libraries before his retirement in
1994. A library science scholar and analyst
of library humor, he has published numerous
works on library topics including A Guide to
Collecting Librariana, that has become the
bible of collecting library artifacts and
memorabilia.
“We started collecting craft because it
was more affordable than higher-priced
antiques,” said Nora. “What we purchased
became more meaningful to us because
we met and became friendly with the
craftspeople who created the pieces. We
enjoy talking with them, getting involved in
their lives and craft, and watching their
styles change and develop.
"What we purchased
became more meaningful
to us because we met and
became friendly with the
craftspeople who created
the pieces."
“We collect glass and pottery, and I have a
passion for collecting purses and jewelry,”
Nora continued. “I have several hundred
contemporary and older purses in my
collection. In fact, I started to collect
Kathleen Dustin’s purses while she was
still living in Texas, and was delighted when
she moved to New Hampshire and became
a juried member of the League.”
The Stevens have come to the Fair every
year since the early 1970s. Their collection
includes works by Dudley Giberson, Betsy
Giberson, Harry Besett, David Virtue, Tia
Pesso, Dan Dustin, Peter Shrope,
Matthew Brown, Catherine Green, and
numerous other members of the League.
“We especially appreciate pieces that are
both functional and beautiful,” Norman
added. “The quality of work we find at the
Nora and Norman Stevens in front of the Information
Tent at the 75th Annual Craftsmen’s Fair
Fair is exceptional. It is also exciting to see
what the children in the Next Generation
tent are displaying and selling. They are the
future of craft.”
More than 20 years ago the Stevens began
sponsoring the Stevens Metal Award at the
Biennial Members’ Juried Exhibition as an
award for excellence in metalwork to reflect
Nora’s interest in jewelry. Currently they
sponsor the Stevens Glass Award and the
Joe Tucker Metal Award for the Living With
Craft Exhibition during the Annual
Craftsmen’s Fair. These awards are presented
during the Fair’s opening night Preview
Party. This year’s recipient of the Stevens
Glass Award was Tom Talpey for his Table
Lamp, which was also chosen for the
League’s Permanent Collection. The
recipient of the Joe Tucker Metal Award was
Paulette Werger. “Both are long-term
friends which made those awards even
more special.”
“We enjoy supporting the League and the
craftspeople. We feel that we take away as
much as we give,” they said. “We have
made lifelong friends and the League is like
part of our extended family.”
“The League is extraordinarily fortunate to
have captured the hearts of Nora and
Norman. They are great friends who
understand the mission of the League and
we are so grateful for their support of our
juried members,” said Susie Lowe-Stockwell,
Executive Director of the League. 
Vase by Paulette Werger
9
l e agu e r e ta i l gall e r i e s
Center Sandwich
Sandwich Home Industries
32 Main Street
Center Sandwich, NH 03227
Phone: 603-284-6831
Fax: 603-284-7312
Email: sandwich_homeindustries@yahoo.com
Manager: Julie Deak
Concord
36 North Main Street
Concord, NH 03301
Phone/Fax: 603-228-8171
Email: leaguearts@verizon.net
Manager: Janine Lep
Hanover
13 Lebanon Street
Hanover, NH 03755
Phone/Fax: 603-643-5050
Email: hanleague@valley.net
Manager: Tamara Renzo
Littleton
81 Main Street
Littleton, NH 03561
Phone: 603-444-1099
Fax: 603-444-1098
Email: littletoncrafts@verizon.net
Owner: Jeff Wheeler
Managers: Michele Allison and Beth Simon
Meredith
279 Daniel Webster Highway
Meredith, NH 03253
Phone: 603-279-7920
Fax: 603-279-1073
Email: nhcraft@worldpath.net
Manager: Nancy Hunter-Rowley
North Conway
2526 White Mountain Highway
North Conway, NH 03860
Phone: 603-356-2441
Fax: 603-356-2652
Email: nhleague@earthandfirestudio.net
Owners: Philip and Karissa Jacobs
Manager: Karissa Jacobs
Wolfeboro
15 North Main Street
Wolfeboro, NH 03896
Phone: 603-569-3309
Email: winterharborfarm@aol.com
Manager: Sarah Copplestone
10
North Country Studio Workshops is
Seeking a Part-time Executive Director
North Country Studio Workshops, a New Hampshire-based non-profit organization that
produces a conference of advanced level craft and arts workshops every other year, seeks
an executive director (part time, average 1½ days per week) from June 2009 through
May 2011. Responsibilities include supervising a part time staff of three, working with
an active volunteer Planning Committee, planning and presenting a five-day conference
of advanced level craft and arts workshops, fundraising and development, as well as
marketing and promotion. Knowledge of budgets, networking within craft and arts
communities, and long-term planning are important qualifications. Applicants may submit
a letter of interest, a resume and three references with contact information to North
Country Studio Workshops, PO Box 186, Deerfield, NH 03037. Call Kathy Hanson at
603-463-7562 or email kephanson@aol.com for more information. 
Sign Up Now to Participate in the
2009 New York Times Travel Show
This year’s exhibit will be larger than ever!
For the past three years, the League of NH
Craftsmen has been exhibiting at the New
York Times Travel Show, one of the largest
travel shows in the US attracting over
30,000 avid travelers (the majority of whom
are in the upper income brackets) and travel
industry professionals. Having a presence at
this show has helped to generate awareness
of the League, the Annual Craftsmen’s Fair,
and the Sunapee/Dartmouth Region.
The 2009 New York Times Travel show will
be held February 6-8 at the Jacob K. Javits
Convention Center in New York City. The
League will be participating in this event,
but this time in partnership with the New
Hampshire Division of Travel and Tourism
and with a larger (10 foot by 20 foot)
exhibit. The exhibit promotes the Annual
Craftsmen’s Fair as one of the summertime
attractions for visitors to New Hampshire. A
highlight of the booth is the display of fine
craft by juried League members, which is
always a draw.
Become a Participant!
We will be producing a four-color brochure
listing all New York Times Travel Show
participants that will be distributed at the
show, along with each participant’s
promotional materials.
This is a great marketing opportunity for our
juried members. Our exhibit will accommodate
up to 24 participants. For a fee of $60, the
League will:
• Include a color photo of your craft with a
50-word description and contact/website
information in the New York Times Travel
show handout
• Distribute your marketing materials
• Exhibit a sample of your craft (must be
easily transportable)
If you are interested in taking advantage of
this event, please contact Terri Wiltse by
January 1, 2009 at twiltse@nhcrafts.org or
603-224-3375. 
League Receives Grants
The League recently received two state grants. The New Hampshire State Council on the Arts
awarded the League with $14,400 for the second of two years from July 1, 2007 – June 31,
2009 to assist with general operating needs. The New Hampshire Division of Travel and
Tourism awarded a $8,542.50 Joint Promotional Program (JPP) grant to assist with out-ofstate advertising for NH Open Doors. 
Lifetime Achievement Award Exhibition
Featuring Vivika and Otto Heino and Mary and Edwin Scheier
Scheduled for May 15, 2009 – August 14, 2009
Through recommendations, nominations, and a vote by the Board of
Trustees, the League of NH Craftsmen honors extraordinary craftsmen
with a Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2007, Otto and Vivika Heino
and Edwin and Mary Scheier received the award. In celebration, an
exhibition is being planned to showcase their work and honor their
remarkable achievements. The exhibition will be held May 15 through
Ceramic bowl by
August 14, 2009.
Edwin Scheier
The League’s Gallery 205 committee is seeking examples of the work of
these master level craftsmen from our broader community. If you have
a piece of their pottery, please consider loaning it to the League for
this exhibition.
If you are interested please contact Catherine Green at 603-224-3375
or cgreen@nhcrafts.org and provide a photograph of the piece. The
photograph will help make certain that there are no duplicate pieces.
Certificates of Appreciation will be given to those whose work is included. 
Ceramic bowl by
Otto Heino
Permanent Collection Acquisition
The League is pleased to announce the new acquisition of a stained glass lamp by juried
member Thomas E. Talpey into the Permanent Collection. On display in the 2008 Fair’s Living
With Craft exhibition, the lamp was generously purchased for the League by an anonymous
donor. The bottom of the lamp is made with 72 pieces of polished slices of nephrite jade;
above these are 192 pieces of opalescent white glass. Tom used the copper foil method to
make the lamp.
The League’s Permanent Collection contains 272 examples of fine craft by juried League
craftsmen. The Advisory Committee would like to hear from collectors and craftspeople who
are interested in donating items to the Permanent Collection, making a financial contribution
to support purchases for the collection, or providing names of collectors and owners of
important pieces whom they might approach. To request a packet of information, ask
questions, or make comments and suggestions, please contact Catherine Green at
cgreen@nhcrafts.org or call 603-224-3375. 
NH Open Doors
First-ever statewide touring
and shopping event
Veterans’ Day Weekend – November 8-9
On Veterans’ Day Weekend (November 8-9),
juried members of the League and the
League’s retail galleries participated in NH
Open Doors, the first-ever statewide touring
and shopping event. The League partnered
with New Hampshire Made to create an
event that offered people of all ages an
"authentic New Hampshire experience." NH
Open Doors expands upon the concept of
"open studios" where visitors meet artisans
and craftspeople, to also include specialty
food producers, retail shops, restaurants,
farm stands and orchards, lodging
properties, cultural events and attractions.
New Hampshire residents and visitors of all
ages were invited to take a self-guided tour
using information posted on the event
website, www.NHOpenDoors.com.
The League and New Hampshire Made
organized and managed this event with
promotional assistance from numerous New
Hampshire art, craft, and business
organizations, and with support from lead
sponsors: New Hampshire Division of Travel
and Tourism and Margaritas Mexican
restaurants. 
Sponsored by
League Craft Education Scholarships Available!
The League is committed to supporting craft
education and provides the following grants
and scholarships:
Program Enhancements Grants are available
yearly to any community based, non-profit
organization. A total of $5,000 shall be awarded
to provide supplementary financial assistance
to initiate, improve or extend craft education
programs. Local initiative and in-kind service
are important factors considered in the
competitive selection process. Applications
must be postmarked no later than January 31.
Grants are awarded no later than March 15.
This year, grants were awarded to the Enfield
Shaker Museum, the Mill Pond Center for the
Arts, the Hanover League of NH Craftsmen’s
CraftStudies program, League of NH Craftsmen,
Littleton, and League of NH Craftsmen, Meredith.
reviewed by the Scholarship Committee
on a monthly basis as needed. For more
information about these opportunities,
contact Catherine Green at
cgreen@nhcrafts.org or 603-224-3375.
Craft Education Scholarships are available
each year to residents of New Hampshire or
those living within ten miles of its border and
are intended to provide supplementary
financial assistance to people involved in
craft-related study. A total of $5,000 is
allotted each year. This year, scholarships
have already been awarded to Raina Gardner,
and juried craftsmen Kit Cornell and
Michele O’Neil Kincaid. Applications are
Meredith Ashley Joyce, daughter of juried
member Donna Joyce, was the recipient of
the $1,000 Craft Education Scholarship for a
graduating high school senior. Meredith is
attending Miami University. Justiana Marie
Andrews (Milford, NH), Justine Cruz
(Hopkinton, NH), Paul Igoe, Jr. (Durham, NH),
Jason Hebert (Bow, NH), and Lindsay Tatis
(Nashua, NH), also received partial Craft
Education Scholarships. 
11
Non-Profit Org
US Postage
PAID
Concord, NH
Permit No. 551
League of NH Craftsmen
205 North Main Street
Concord, NH 03301
Return Service Requested
e x h i b i t i o n sch e d ul e
GallERY 205
Through the Looking Glass
September 12 – December 12, 2008
An exhibition featuring the beauty,
function, and magic of glass.
Garden Imagery
February 6 – April 24, 2009
A multi-media exhibition
featuring the spirit and life
of the garden through four
seasons.
Starry Night Iris Orb by
Christoper Sherwin
Lifetime Achievement Awards Exhibition:
Vivika & Otto Heino and Mary & Edwin Scheier
May 15 – August 14, 2009
An exhibition featuring the work of these internationally renowned
potter partnerships, in honor of their accomplishments and
contributions to the craft world
New Hampshire Weavers Guild
September 18 – December 11, 2009
A juried exhibition featuring the work of the New Hampshire
Weavers Guild
OPEN
Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Saturday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm during exhibitions
205 North Main Street, Concord, NH
For updated information about Gallery 205, our Retail Galleries, the Annual League of NH Craftsmen’s
Fair, or our other programs, please visit www.nhcrafts.org.
The League of NH Craftsmen is supported in part by a grant from the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.