Crafting Success: Empowering Artists with Keona Tranby of American Craft Council

Join host Rob Lee as he welcomes Keona Tranby to the Truth In This Art Podcast. Keona, the distinguished Director of Marketing and Communications at the American Craft Council, illuminates her remarkable journey. A graduate of the University of St. Thomas with a degree in business administration and entrepreneurship, Keona's path was ignited by her print magazine venture during college, propelling her into a dynamic startup role in San Francisco and, subsequently, the vibrant realm of Venice, California. Here, she collaboratively worked alongside fashion designers, photographers, and models. Keona's pursuits extend beyond the professional sphere; her free time is artfully woven with passions like canine companionship, interior design, event hosting, gardening, and the transformation of thrift store finds. A torchbearer for creative entrepreneurship and artist empowerment, Keona's episode promises a captivating exploration of her dedication to amplifying the craft field and nurturing innovative spirits.
 
About the American Craft Council

The American Craft Council is a national nonprofit organization that connects and galvanizes diverse craft communities and traditions to advance craft’s impact in contemporary American life and to keep craft artists and the community connected, inspired, and thriving.

In this episode, we explore:

• The multifaceted support system of the American Craft Council as Keona delves into the organization's profound impact, spanning print publications, immersive events, and a digital arsenal of resources, all aimed at nurturing and amplifying the vibrant world of craft.
• The heart of artist interactions and financial sustenance with Keona, as she explores the indispensable role of in-person events in fostering meaningful connections between creators and buyers, while also acting as a vital income stream for artists.
• Journey into the realm of opportunities with Keona, as she unveils the ACC's exciting initiatives, from the open call for applications to its esteemed online directory to the upcoming Craft Made marketplace in Baltimore, offering a platform for artists to exhibit their masterpieces and engage with a discerning audience.
• Engage in a dialogue about sustainability and artist empowerment with Keona, as she unveils the American Craft Council's unwavering commitment to championing handmade, eco-conscious practices, and providing invaluable resources, such as social media mentorship, to propel artists toward success in the modern creative landscape.

Join us and learn from the best! Keona discusses the organization's mission to support the craft field and its artists. She highlights the importance of in-person events for artists and the impact of the pandemic on their livelihoods. Keona also shares information about the ACC's online directory and the Craft Made marketplace in Baltimore, emphasizing the organization's commitment to creative entrepreneurship and sustainable practices.

Mentioned in this episode
American Craft Made May 2022

Mentioned in this episode
Baltimore Magazine

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Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:

• Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
• Edited by Daniel Alexis
• Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor

Photos:

• Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
• Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.

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