A Theory of Craft

What is craft? How is it different from fine art or design? In A Theory of Craft, Howard Risatti examines these issues by comparing handmade ceramics, glass, metalwork, weaving, and furniture to painting, sculpture, photography, and machine-made design from Bauhaus to the Memphis Group. He describes craft as uniquely blending function with a deeper expression of human values that transcend culture, time, and space. Craft must articulate a role for itself in contemporary society, says Risatti; otherwise it will be absorbed by fine art or design, and its singular approach to understanding the world will be lost.

Theory of Craft: Function and Aesthetic Expression
Howard Risatti is professor emeritus of art history at Virginia Commonwealth University. His four previous books include Skilled Work: American Craft in the Renwick Gallery and Postmodern Perspectives: Issues in Contemporary Art.
[A Theory of Craft] lays out reasons for the historical dichotomy in Western philosophy between fine art and crafts.--Library Journal

A well-organized argument for the consideration of craft as art and its elevation in status. . . . An important contribution to the field of contemporary craft activity and its contributions.--Wintherthur Portfolio

Destined to become required reading for undergraduate and graduate courses in art and craft history. . . . A book worth waiting for.--Ceramics Monthly

Howard Risatti offers a very palatable narrative in A Theory of Craft: Function and Aesthetic Expression. Risatti dives headfirst into the craft versus art and design argument, peeling back the layers to understand the most basic definitions, functions and history of craft.--Arts Reader

Risatti has long been ahead of the curve in regards to bridging the art/craft divide. . . . A tantalizingly broad argument for craft's relevance.--Surface Design Journal

With a writing style that is direct and engaging, Risatti examines the value of the handmade in an age of mass-production and constructs a critical framework for evaluating the place of craft media in today's art environment.--FiberArts