Selection criteria for this exhibition required that the work reflect the personal values of the artists and that the artists discuss their values and their personal processes. Twenty-five craft artists were selected to participate in the exhibition. In the opinion of the selection committee each displays thoughtfulness and integrity, as well as technical expertise and artistic merit.

In the Soul's Code  James Hillman suggests that certain individuals are born with a creative imperative. For these individuals the work of the soul is preset. They must pursue their creative work. This fits with the description of some of the artists who reported that they "need" to do their work. Some say they are "obsessed or driven" to use certain materials. Others find that their work provides a means of expressing feelings or perspectives which cannot be conveyed through words (Ganim).

Psychotherapist and creativity consultant, Eric Maisel has suggested that creative individuals manifest personality traits such as passion, nonconformity, self-direction, empathy and thoughtfulness. Artists stand forth in the world by revealing their nature through their work. Standing forth involves creativity, awareness, presence and focused attention without sentimentalism (Wong & McKeen).

Throughout human history creative individuals have played an important role as social commentators, healers and visionaries. According to Frank Barron, editor of Creators on Creating, creativity can produce changes for the better in a wide variety of human activities, ranging from the spiritual to the material, the altruistic to the personal, the practical to the idealistic.

Among the artists in this exhibition there are experienced, highly trained professionals and youthful idealists. Some make their living through their artistic pursuits. They represent a variety of mediums including wood, metal, textiles, clay and papier mache.

Despite the diversity of media there were common themes reported by the artists. Learning, personal growth and healing were the most frequently reported as reasons for engaging in artistic work. For some religious faith was directly connected to their work; while virtually all of the artists reported an important connection to soul or spirit.

Love of materials and the process of making objects of beauty or social relevance was a common theme. Many stated that a reverence for nature and the environment is reflected in their work. Some make social comments or seek societal change through their work. Valuing family and community and doing work which supports them was important to many of the artists. Connections to family or world history was a driving force for some, while a respect for the cycles of life was also an important factor. Travel and exploration were also seen as important to the work of some of the artists.

Our intention is to show through the exhibition a variety of fine crafts and to examine the reflections of their creators regarding personal and societal values. Taken together these craft artists present as thoughtful individuals whose lives and work are guided by principles which are enriching and strengthening for themselves and their world.