Since the Arts and Crafts movement of the early 20th century, women have been an active force in craft and design. The movement’s predominant aim was to produce beautifully designed and well-made objects for everyday use. The democratic ambitions of Arts and Crafts appealed to female artists who were encouraged not only to participate, but also to lead. The innovation and creation of these early female modernists continues today, with original handcrafted objects and utilitarian works of art designed for mass production.

Drawing from the collection of the Minneapolis Institute of Art, this exhibition at the Wells Fargo Center in downtown Minneapolis showcases the talents of women in the fields of industrial design and craft. Examples of industrial design come from a diverse array of pioneering women, including British silver designer Kate Harris, American inventor Marion Weeber, and lifelong designer Eva Zeisel, who recently passed away at the age of 105. Works by contemporary craft artists include vessels by British ceramicist Jennifer Lee, American wood artist Virginia Dotson, and local artist Jan McKeachie-Johnson. Combined, this selection of objects highlights the creativity and skill women have used to transform everyday objects into fascinating and beautiful works of art.