ACV Goals

The Artisans Center of Virginia believes that collaboration with many different art/craft organizations throughout the state is key to the successful promotion of Virginia artisans and the fine craft they produce.

Mission Statement

The Artisans Center of Virginia (ACV) supports and promotes the culture of Virginia artisans through education, entrepreneurship, research, galleries and exhibitions.  The Center believes that quality, handmade fine craft strengthens the cultural, educational and economic vitality of local communities.

Goals & Strategic Action

Goal 1:  Develop artisan networks, pursue strategic alliances and build coalitions on both the state and local levels with other groups.

1. Develop the Virginia Craft Trail Network 
2. Facilitate of Strategic Retail Alliance Partnerships
3. Support of joint plans of work with Virginia artisan guilds, studio tours, exhibitions and regional artisan centers across the state.   
4. Develop partnerships with local tourism, economic and workforce development boards           

Goal 2:  Provide sales and exhibition opportunities to promote the work of juried member Virginia artisans.

1. Develop an online store for global access                
2. Facilitate Statewide member artisan exhibitions 
3. Support volunteer member organized regional craft fairs
4. Host statewide Craft Fair (in association with ACV Craft Conference & Business Institute)

Goal 3:  Create educational opportunities for youth (both in the schools and on-site), adults, and professional advancement opportunities for the practicing artisan.

1. Establish a centerally located Studio School and Artisan Gallery
2. Provide Education Outreach services
3. Maintain the State Jury System for providing critque and distinction for quality Virginia artisan work
4. Facilitate the State Master Artisan Program        
5. Host the Statewide Craft Conference & Business Institute

Goal 4:  Gather and contribute to research on craft demographics and practices in the Commonwealth that the impact craft has had on our society and the economy of the state.

1. Maintain and facilitate the activities of the Virginia Craft Registry
2. Maintain data on Virginia's Craft Industry that exemplifies the importance of artisan businesses to the Virginia economy.

Goal 5:  Increase awareness and visibility by advocating the importance of handmade quality fine craft as economically vital to local communities while providing exposure for ACV programming and member artisans.           

1. Work with federal, state and local decision makers to advance the importance of the Craft Industry in Virginia    

Goal 6:  Maintain the heritage of quality, handmade fine craft and support those who perpetuate its viability.                         

1. Increase visiblity and promote the work of Virginia artisans through media
2. Encourage the developmentsof collector's guilds and artisan patroning efforts
3. Encourage the development of programs and initiatives that support "next generation" artisans

If you would like to help bring these plans to fruition contact the Artisans Center of Virginia today.