Redefining Craft examines the evolving intersections of art, craft, and design. It delves into the distinct philosophies and ways of knowing that characterize each discipline while exploring how the creative process reflects diverse human values. The work investigates the hybrid spaces where these fields overlap, offering new perspectives on the act of making and its significance.
The History:
Redefining Craft originated in 2004 as an early WordPress blog; during this time, Dennis Stevens served as the ceramics and glass technician within the School of Art and Design at San Jose State University.
About Redefining Craft
Mission:
At Redefining Craft, our mission is to explore the evolving landscape of craft in the 21st century. We challenge established norms and foster a dynamic understanding of craft practices as related to art and design practices.
Values:
Innovation: We embrace disruptive knowledge, pushing the boundaries of traditional craft by integrating new technologies and contemporary art forms.
Inclusivity: We advocate for diverse perspectives and challenge existing power structures within craft communities to create a more democratic approach.
Dialogue: We foster open and respectful conversations that balance edification with constructive disruption, encouraging shared values and introducing new ideas.
Collaboration: We promote knowledge exchange and collaboration within and beyond traditional craft communities, drawing inspiration from various disciplines and cultural perspectives.
Focus Areas:
Digital Technologies: Examining the impact of digital fabrication and other technologies on traditional craft practices.
Contemporary Art Intersections: Exploring the intersections between craft and contemporary art forms, including street art and social practice art.
Power Dynamics: Analyzing power dynamics within craft communities and advocating for greater inclusivity.
Knowledge Exchange: Facilitating dialogue and knowledge exchange among craftspeople, artists, designers, and the public to create a vibrant and evolving craft community.
About Dennis:
Dennis holds a Doctorate in Art and Art Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, a Master's in Instructional Technology from San Jose State University, and a Bachelor's of Fine Arts from Clemson University. Before academia, he served as a Gunner's Mate in the U.S. Coast Guard.
Dennis Stevens, Ed.D. is an innovative thought leader at the intersection of emergent technologies, ethics, and democratic governance. With over 20 years of transdisciplinary expertise spanning education, policy, communications, and advisory roles, he has spearheaded initiatives that provide critical insights and transformative outcomes.
Dennis, a prolific founder, established Penelope Mimetics LLC, where he guided synthetic biology research, development, and other projects. He is also the founder and managing director of Conway Cultural Development Corporation, a non-profit that fosters stakeholder engagement in creative placemaking. With a diverse background in the arts, sciences, writing, research, and media production, Dennis brings a cross-disciplinary approach to all his endeavors.
His experience includes leading transformative initiatives in community development, synthetic biology R&D, customer discovery, instruction and training, NSF's Innovation Corps (I-CORPS) entrepreneurship program, organizational change management, and thought leadership. He has previously leveraged technology to engage online communities in meaningful educational conversations in other knowledge domains.
