Crafts museum alights in Ghirardelli Square - California Crafts Museum

Sunset, Jan, 1986

Boutique-weary shoppers in San Francisco's Ghirardellie Square now have an oasis in which to enjoy a cultural breather--the California Crafts Museum. In this small but choice space, you can see throughtfully planned shows of work in clay, fiber, glass, metal, and wood by some of California's finest, most adventurous contemporary craftsmen.

founded in Palo Alto in 1978, the museum has sought and earned the larger exposure of a city location. It now alights in space donated by Ghirardelli management, moving from time to time for commercial tenants, Check the current spot by calling (415) 771-1919 before you visit. It's open, free, 11 to 6 daily.

On view through January 5 are moderately priced (many under $25) objects in all media, suitable as gifts. The emphasis on sales is atypical.

January 18 through March 16, see new work by four award winners from past shows at the museum: Kathleen Hendig (ceramics), Brent Kee Young (glass), and Alan Grinberg and Philip Porter (textiles). The public is also invited to an artists' reception January 26 from 6 to 8. Future shows include "Crafts in Interior Design," March 29 through June 15 (a juried competition for California craftsmen in lighting, seating, and floor covering); "Puppeteers as Craftsmen," June 26 through September 7; and "Southern California Craftsman," September 20 through November 9.

At the desk is an interesting file listing other current crafts-related events--local, regional, and national in scope.