PMA Contemporary Craft Show: Celebrating 49 Years

PMA Contemporary Craft Show Returns with Visionary Talent in 2025

Philadelphia’s fall arts calendar wouldn’t be complete without the PMA Contemporary Craft Show, a hallmark of craftsmanship, culture, and community that returns for its 49th annual edition this November. Presented by The Women’s Committee of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Craft Show Committee, the event runs from Friday, November 7, to Sunday, November 9, 2025, with a celebratory Preview Party on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Established in 1977 as the first retail craft show organized by a volunteer committee to benefit a nonprofit institution, the PMA Contemporary Craft Show has grown into one of the nation’s premier craft showcases. Over nearly five decades, the show has inspired similar events across the country while raising more than $15 million in support of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Those funds have fueled everything from educational programming and exhibitions to acquiring new pieces for the museum’s permanent collection.

This year’s show continues that legacy with a stunning array of 195 juried artists from across the United States, selected for their skill, innovation, and devotion to contemporary craft. Guests can expect to explore exceptional works across 13 disciplines, including metal, fiber, wood, ceramics, jewelry, and more — all handcrafted and one-of-a-kind.

PMA Contemporary Craft Show: Artists to Watch This November

One of the defining strengths of the PMA Contemporary Craft Show lies in its blend of established masters and rising stars. This year’s artist lineup is no exception, offering a thoughtful balance of innovation, technique, and storytelling through craft.

Among the newcomers is Eric Doctors, a ceramic artist who infuses mathematical forms into wheel-thrown sculptures bursting with vibrant colors and functional design. Meanwhile, Stacey Lee Weber, a Philadelphia-based mixed media artist, presents intricate embroidered works on paper currency — a provocative marriage of beauty and subversion that challenges viewers to reconsider value, art, and commerce.

The fiber arts are well represented by Clara Schulte, who draws from Appalachian traditions to create rich, patterned textile pieces that blend the old with the new. Returning favorite David Levy brings his California-crafted game tables and furniture to center stage, fusing classic woodworking with modern flair and functional elegance.

With artist demonstrations, guest lectures, and curated exhibitions integrated throughout the weekend, the PMA Contemporary Craft Show is more than just a shopping experience — it’s a celebration of artistic process and the evolving role of craft in contemporary culture.

PMA Contemporary Craft Show: Tickets, Legacy, and What’s Next

As always, proceeds from the PMA Contemporary Craft Show directly support the Philadelphia Museum of Art, ensuring that creativity and cultural enrichment remain cornerstones of the city’s future. With over four decades of impact, the Craft Show stands not only as a fundraising success but also as a vibrant reminder of Philadelphia’s status as a craft-forward city where heritage meets imagination.

Tickets are on sale now, and guests are encouraged to secure access early — especially for the exclusive Preview Party on November 6, which offers first access to artists’ work and an intimate evening of cocktails, conversation, and craft.

About Post Author

Allan Lane

Philadelphia born and bred, Allan Lane is the Publisher and Editor in Chief of digital magazines. He launched his first publication, SportBikes Inc Magazine in 2010, followed by dosage MAGAZINE in 2019. Recently, Allan launched his third online publication, Club For Man. As a journalist, Allan covers fashion, lifestyle, culture, art, and motorcycles.

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