Join us for a special screening of Made in the West, PBS’s new documentary on American western functional art, followed by an artist panel exploring the functional arts as a dynamic and viable career pathway for young people. Tennesseans have long demonstrated their talents in the trades and vocational education, and the functional arts represent an exciting area for continued growth.
The panel will feature renowned coppersmith and silversmith Ben Caldwell; acclaimed sculptor and woodworker Brad Sells; and Dr. Steven Gentile, Executive Director of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC), with Harris Haston, chairman of the nonprofit By Western Hands, serving as moderator.
Schedule of Events
5:30–6:00 p.m.: Reception
6:00–6:56 p.m.: Made in the West screening (56 min.)
7:00–7:30 p.m.: Artist panel discussion
About Made in the West
Made in the West explores the legacy and future of American western functional art. In a world of fast fashion and fast furniture, functional art invites us to slow down and appreciate the details. This is art you can sit on, drink out of, or wear on your feet. It reflects the natural surroundings, and nowhere is this clearer than in the American West. Many of today’s master artisans are aging out of the craft, and the path to preserve this uniquely American art form is at stake.
