Chautauqua Craft Alliance History.

          In 1979, a group of Chautauqua County craftsmen got together in Western New York and began discussing ways to make people more aware of the many fine artists in the region. They worked hard, and by 1980 became The Chautauqua Craft Alliance, and organized their first craft shows.Their aim was to educate the public as to the availability of the fine craftwork, and give exposure to the artists.
          Two summer shows were organized at the Chautauqua Institution. The shows were kept to about 60 exhibitors, but included the finest examples of work in a variety of media. To keep the quality, they didn't restrict participation to only Chautauqua County, so talented artists and craftsmen from around the country are encouraged to apply for the shows, held in the unique setting of the over 130 year old Chautauqua Institution.
          The Chautauqua Institution was founded in 1874 on the belief that everyone “has a right to be all that he can be -- to know all that he can know.” It is a National Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The unique beauty of its architecture, and a wonderful lakeside setting make the Chautauqua Institution a vibrant community where visitors are offered opportunities for intellectual and spiritual growth.
          Besides organizing the two summer craft fairs, the Alliance gives a scholarship to the Art School at Chautauqua Institution and funds an endowment for the art students at the State University at Fredonia. They have sponsored a juried fiber show for several years, that attracted international entries, and was judged by eminent people in the fiber world. Other exhibits, the Alliance has sponsored are group showings at the Prendergast Library in Jamestown, NY & the Patterson Library in Westfield, NY.