Craft In America Season 3 Episode 2 Family

Craft In America is a documentary series that explores the various craft traditions and techniques across America. Season 3, episode 2 is titled "Family" and focuses on how craft is passed down through generations, both within families and communities.

The episode begins by examining the traditional Navajo rug weaving technique that has been passed down for centuries. Filmed on the Navajo reservation in Arizona, we see how a family of weavers work together to create a large rug. The weavers explain how the craft has been passed down through generations, how each member of their family has a role to play in the process, and how it is important to preserve their tradition.

Next, the episode explores the process of stone carving, specifically within the Makah tribe in the Pacific Northwest. The Makah have been carving masks and totem poles for generations, and we see how one family passes the craft down to the next generation. A young boy watches as his father, grandfather, and community members carve intricate designs into the stones, and he begins to learn the craft himself.

The episode then shifts to a Mexican-American family in East Los Angeles who have been making piñatas for over 50 years. The family patriarch, Tomas, is the master piñata maker and has taught his children and grandchildren the craft. We see the process of creating a piñata from start to finish and learn about the cultural significance behind it.

The fourth segment of the episode focuses on a glassblowing family in Seattle, Washington. The Chihuly family has been working with glass for generations, and we see how Dale Chihuly's father influenced his work and how Dale has passed down the craft to his own son. We see the intricate process of creating glass sculptures and learn about the unique challenges and rewards of working with this medium.

Lastly, the episode concludes with a visit to a school in Baltimore that teaches traditional African-American quilting techniques. The school was founded by a mother and daughter who were passionate about preserving this important craft. We see how the school has impacted the community and how the students are continuing the tradition of African-American quilting.

Overall, "Family" is a heartwarming episode that showcases the beauty and importance of passing down craft through generations. It highlights the connection between family and community that can be fostered through the act of creating art, and the cultural significance that craft can hold. The episode is a must-see for anyone interested in the intersection of art and tradition.