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Buying Handmade in Texas

August 14, 2014

Harlan Butt, "Horned Toad Vessel #3." Metal. Photo by Amanda Shackleford.
Harlan Butt, “Horned Toad Vessel #3.” Metal. Photo by Amanda Shackleford.

Texas is brimming with artists, offering you beautiful work exemplified by individuality and spirit. Check out these fine examples of Texan craft to see how they stand out from the mass-produced, and see why we think buying handmade is the ideal choice for consumers.

Caitie Sellers, "Window Bar Bracelet." Sterling Silver. Photo by Amanda Shackleford.
Caitie Sellers, “Window Bar Bracelet.” Sterling Silver. Photo by Amanda Shackleford.
Michael Farris, "Collage Card." Mixed media.Photo by Amanda Shackleford.
Michael Farris, “Collage Card.” Mixed media.Photo by Amanda Shackleford.
  • Choosing a handmade piece creates a relationship between you and the maker. When it comes to craft, you are able to get a sense of who the artist is as a person and develop a rapport. It makes the work more meaningful when you are able to understand the person behind it. Manufactured objects by design lack the personality and intimacy of the handmade.
  • Selecting work from Texas supports your community. You have the power to choose where your money goes! When you acquire a local work, you are investing in the career of a fellow resident. This financial backing allows them to continue on with their work and use their skills to enhance the community through their art, in outreach programs and teaching positions.
Richard Florance, "Red Cedar Bowl." Wood and Turquoise. Photo by Amanda Shackleford.
Richard Florance, “Red Cedar Bowl.” Wood and Turquoise. Photo by Amanda Shackleford.
Jason Kishell, "Scarab Jar." Ceramic. Photo by Amanda Shackleford.
Jason Kishell, “Scarab Jar.” Ceramic. Photo by Amanda Shackleford.
  • Works made by fellow Texans reflect the area’s unique culture. Showcase your pride with a work hand carved from Texan wood! Artists here create pieces unavailable anywhere else, marking them an exclusive sample of the Houston experience. This art is especially suited for gifts, which have proven very popular within our community.
  • Though more expensive than mass-produced goods, local artists create work with more value. They demonstrate an individual dedicaton to high standards, along with a mastery of skills that sets handmade works apart from those made by machine.
Clara Hoag, "Assorted Face Mugs." Ceramic. Photo by Amanda Shackleford.
Clara Hoag, “Assorted Face Mugs.” Ceramic. Photo by Amanda Shackleford.
Demitra Thomloudis, "Grey and Yellow Two Box Necklace." Mixed media. Photo by Amanda Shackleford.
Demitra Thomloudis, “Grey and Yellow Two Box Necklace.” Mixed media. Photo by Amanda Shackleford.

More News

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Houston Center for Contemporary Craft (HCCC) is pleased to announce that six new members have joined their board of directors. The team has eagerly welcomed

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Houston Center for Contemporary Craft (HCCC) is pleased to announce its newest class of residents for 2023 – 2024, a group of 11 outstanding local,

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Houston Center for Contemporary Craft (HCCC) is pleased to present Max Adrian: RIPSTOP, a solo exhibition of patchwork textiles and inflatable sculptures by the Ohio-based

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Two Female Artists Use Unique, Time-Honored Techniques By Saranna Zhang Craft and ceramics made by female artists are getting a new spotlight. “The Land of

June 29, 2023

Houston Center for Contemporary Craft (HCCC) is pleased to present In Residence: 16th Edition, an annual exhibition celebrating the Center’s Artist Residency Program, which has

4848 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002

Houston Center for Contemporary Craft is located in the Houston Museum District, two blocks south of Highway 59, near Rosedale St. Visitors should park in the free parking lot located directly behind the building, off Rosedale and Travis Streets, and enter through the back entrance. 

Free Admission

OPEN TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 10 AM – 5 PM

4848 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002

Houston Center for Contemporary Craft is located in the Houston Museum District, two blocks south of Highway 59, near Rosedale St. Visitors should park in the free parking lot located directly behind the building, off Rosedale and Travis Streets, and enter through the back entrance. 

Free Admission

OPEN TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 10 AM – 5 PM

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