Artist Update - Emiy Amey

Jewelry Artist Emily Amey recently had 5 pieces featured in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition. In the past few years, Emily has been featured in Instyle, Lucky, People and City Magazines. Handmade designs of silver and gold dominate her elegant style, while gracefully playing on nature and organic forms. Her work has appeared on fashion show runways, been touted by fashion editors and stylists, and worn by the likes of Gisele Bundchen. She has been getting a lot of attention recently for her beautiful new work she is producing.

What do you think of Emily Amey’s art jewelry? Does her style remind you of other boutique jewelry makers? We’d love to hear questions and comments on our artists and their work.

The Boom is Over. Long Live the Art!

Recently the The New York Times ran a great article regarding the arts movement as it pertains to today's socio-economic climate. The Boom Is Over. Long Live the Art! (http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/15/arts/design/15cott.html?_r=1&ref=arts) reflects on the sweep changes that affect the art world, and the country as a whole during times of upheaval, past and present. Galleries are closing and artists have to be more resourceful and efficient to continue creating work. As noted in the article, "This has happened more than once in the recent past. Art has changed as a result. And in every case it has been artists who have reshaped the game."

Through thick and thin, American artists and artisans will continue to be creative. Creating work and jobs, supporting families and friends, forming collectives and arts organizations. Previous periods of downtrodden and unemployment saw the creation of The National Endowment for the Arts, Manhattan's Soho Arts movement, the formation of New Wave Art, and many new, exciting ventures.

Best American Arts aims to connect American with American Art. We take great pride in supporting our artists and artisans. The National Endowment for the Arts aims "to enrich our Nation and its diverse cultural heritage by supporting works of artistic excellence, advancing learning in the arts, and strengthening the arts in communities throughout the country."

We proudly of behind the NEA's motto that, "A great country deserves great art."

Read more about Our Artists, Our Story and Our Mission @ BestAmericanArts.com.

Feature : Quilting Artist Judy Rush

One of our newest artists, quilter Judy Rush is featured in a pair of videos discussing her quilting process and artistic history. This past summer, Judy was featured in the exhibition, Material Matters: Quiltmaking in the 21st Century at The Columbus Museum of Art. The exhibition challenged traditional idea of quiltmaking, exploring the innovative techniques, concepts, and styles in modern quilting. Watch Judy discuss her work in the videos below then browse on over to her online gallery and view her eclectic style for yourself. 

In the coming month we will be interviewing Judy, as part of our Connecting Americans with American Art project. Our project aims to futher the conversation regarding the artistic process, inspiration, and story behind great American art. 

Updates from the Best American Artists

Artist update time....

As always, Brenda Griffith of Siyeh Studio has been busy working AND maintaining her blog ( You go girl!) . Recently, she installed a beautiful backsplash panel in her own kitchen. It looks marvelous and is a great example of the functional home decor art that we love. Visit Brenda's Blog for more pictures or just to keep up with her Atlanta, Georgia based studio.

JAK Designs has been nominated for a 2009 Niche Award in the Handwoven/Knitted catagory. Their organiJAK Sleeveless Wrap was selected for it's environmentally friendly qualities as well as it's new age style. It is made entirely from organic cotton and sustainable bamboo, making it good for both your wardrobe and the environment.

Be on the lookout for new Spring additions at Best American Arts. We have some new Artists and Items lined up, including exciting additions to our Art Glass collection and more great American made Jewelry.