Craft
Artisans, craftspeople, toolmakers, tradespeople and artists bring unique problem-solving perspectives to the expansive field of craft.
Awards in Craft
In the Maxwell/Hanrahan Awards in Craft, we recognize people for their unique and visionary approach to material-based practice, stewardship of cultural traditions, and craft's potential to connect people, places and ideas. United States Artists supported the award design and currently administers this Foundation program for under-recognized craftspeople and artists across the country.
Exploration and insight require time and commitment.
The Foundation aims to give up to five one-time, unrestricted awards each year. The awards amplify the voices and work of each person and provide time and funding to propel their work forward. Candidates must be US based. United States Artists selects awardees for their unique and dedicated approaches to material-based practice, potential to make significant contributions to their craft, and potential for this award to provide momentum at a critical career juncture. Self-nominations are not allowed. Nominators confidentially identify potential awardees for the Foundation’s partner, United States Artists, where a panel of professionals recommend awardees.
The 2026 selection panelists were:
- Mel Baiser, HELM Construction Solution co-founder and director of vision and strategy.
- Danny Orendorff, The Contemporary Austin interpretative and public programs manager.
- Teri Greeves, Kiowa Tribe member and 2025 Awards in Craft recipient.
- Corey Pemberton, multidisciplinary artist and Crafting the Future executive director.
2026 Craft Awards
Grants in Craft
The Foundation supports grants for Craft Fellowships and Scholarships that allow craftspeople to attend programs and workshops around the country in disciplines such as ceramics, woodworking and fiber arts.
The Foundation partners with organizations that provide Small Grants for Craftspeople to support the structural needs of an individual’s studio practice, whether through grants for equipment, studio safety or professional development.
To reach more craftspeople, the Foundation funds existing Awards and Prizes using the expertise and networks of established guilds and craft associations to celebrate and support their members.