Clay House Pots by Amy Elswick, Louisville

FRANKFORT, Ky. - Three "Kentucky Crafted" businesses are exhibiting at the New York International Gift Fair, Jacob Javits Convention Center, August 11-15, 2002. For the 18th year, the Kentucky Craft Marketing Program (KCMP) booth, 5304/5403, will showcase Kentucky exhibitors in the Handmade division. The returning exhibitors are: Aardvark Woodworks, Inc., offering natural and painted children's toy chests, benches, and various functional items, Beattyville, KY; Judy's Kentucky Crafts, bears made from recycled quilts and coats, Tollesboro, KY; and Clay House Pots, decorative and functional ceramics, Louisville, KY.

The KCMP is pleased to announce that Kentucky Crafted was selected by George Little Management (GLM), sponsor of the show, as one of only ten exhibitors to participate in a newly-offered marketing opportunity. Three, eight-foot liquid plasma display towers, positioned at strategic points at the show, will project product images and information to the estimated 45,000 buyers that attend the show.

"Liquid plasma displays are both eye-catching and a very highly technical means of marketing. Attracting buyers at such a large show is very challenging. This new marketing strategy will help guide buyers to the KCMP booth and give them a visual preview of our products and information before they reach our location on the floor," said Vallorie Henderson, Special Projects Coordinator, Craft Marketing Program. This unique opportunity helps continue the strong presence that the Kentucky Craft Marketing Program has had over the years in this international market and aids in maintaining its leadership position among other states that support their craft industry.

Home to the nation's largest collection of gifts and decorative accessories from around the world, the Gift Fair showcases some 20 international pavilions and more than 100 independent companies from outside the United States. This summer, the semi-annual Gift Fair will feature a total of 2,900 exhibitors, many who report plans to launch new products or expand existing product lines in furniture, bedding, juvenile, home accessories, and lighting categories.

The Kentucky Craft Marketing Program is a state agency in the Kentucky Arts Council, Education, Arts & Humanities Cabinet, Commonwealth of Kentucky. For more information, call Vallorie Henderson at 888 KY CRAFT (592-7238) ext. 4811; or visit the Program's site at www.kycraft.org.

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Since 1981, the Craft Marketing Program's mission is to develop the state's craft industry, support and empower Kentucky artisans and craftspeople, create an economically viable environment for craft entrepreneurs, preserve the state's craft traditions, stimulate and support product development, and generate public awareness, public support and public/private partnerships.

The Program provides assistance to Kentucky residents, individuals, or groups wanting to develop as craft professionals through economic opportunities and training, to other outside entities (e.g., craft retailers, craft and art organizations, community and government agencies), and the general public.