In the midst of beautiful warm weather and sunny Maritime skies, 44 delegates from across the country descended upon Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island to take part in the CCF/FCMA’s Annual National Conference. With representatives from every province and territory, the presentations and ensuing discussions were truly national, touching on varied subjects such as marketing and branding, international activity, public spaces, gaining exposure and much more.

A true celebration of our past, our present, and our future as a collective, collaborative organization, the conference was an opportunity for those working in craft organizations and associations to learn more about what is happening across the country. Mixing business with pleasure, we explored everything the PEI craft community had to offer, visiting galleries, studios and restaurants featuring some of the best craft in the province.

We also reached out to the local craft community in a very public way, by bringing national and regional craft artists, makers, administrators and appreciators together at two special events. The Heirloom Exhibition opening, which featured the work of approximately 15 craft artists in differing media from across the province, was a smash hit, with great traditional and contemporary work displayed at The Guild Gallery and Theatre. The Heirloom Symposium brought in an audience of over 70 people, our biggest audience yet for our 3rd annual event. Discussion was heated, engaging and entertaining, and soon, we will have it all online for everyone to enjoy.

The excitement was palpable throughout the events, and we are so grateful to our many partners and sponsors who made it all happen. Special thanks go out to Tom Dean, Rilla Marshall, Susana Rutherford, Suzanne Scott and Laura Cole, Allie Ralling and Kandace Hagen. We would also like to thank the PEI2014 funding agency, the Canada Council for the Arts, Etsy Canada and PEI Meetings & Conventions, for supporting our endeavours and making this conference our best yet.