Folk and Traditional Arts

This project exposed this region to a top-level rag rug weaving exhibit and workshop opportunities for the first time in the region's history. Rag rug weaving is a form of art that is easily started. There aren't a lot of up-front costs and, while it takes many years to master, basic skills can be learned in a short time. Artists can begin seeing results right away. This project introduced this art form to a new generation of artists and strengthened the existing Fiber Arts Guild organization. There are more people creating and appreciating this art form because of this project. We measured comments from participants about whether they would continue to study and perform the art and if they attend further seminars/exhibits. We can now keep in contact with them about further education opportunities. Furthermore, the Fiber Arts Guild added new members, reactivated three old ones and made valuable new contacts with other rag rug enthusiasts and groups. 2: We asked participants if they had ever attended a seminar/class about rag rug weaving prior to this event and found that this event was unique to our region. Many had not attended any folk arts event prior to our event. We also asked participants which level they considered themselves to be at artistically. We also measured how many participants would be interested in further classes/seminars. A high number (over 85 %) indicated they were. Finally, we asked participants what they would do with the knowledge they learned. All of them indicated they were going to continue to explore the art form and/or join a group advocating and teaching the art. Finally, this project was a giant learning experience for the Fiber Arts Guild. They learned valuable skills in how to present and teach their art, how to generate interest and plan an event. They are already planning smaller events to continue to grow. This experience has taught them how to reach beyond their group and share their passion.