Indiana Artisan

in 2008, John Bower, was included in the very first, select group of 31 artists and craftspersons to be named an Indiana Artisan.

In 2009, Bower received an Indiana Artisan Business Development Grant to assist in the printing cost of promotional brochures.

The Indiana Artisan Development Project is a joint venture between four State agencies, including the Indiana Arts Commission. It was formed to recognize, promote, support, and market the work of the "best of the best" Hoosier artists and craftspeople. The program is also designed to promote value-added food products that are made in Indiana.

“Indiana is home to hundreds of talented artisans and boasts a variety of unique handmade products,” according to Lt. Governor Becky Skillman. “Governor Daniels and I are committed to supporting Hoosier entrepreneurs and promoting Indiana-made products.”

The Indiana Artisan Development Project has been inspired by popular, well-established programs in other states, such as “Kentucky Crafted” and North Carolina’s “Handmade in America.” Individuals selected for Indiana’s program must undergo a jurying process, which will be held every 6 months. According to Project Manager, Eric Freeman, in order to insure the success of the Indiana program, only high-quality arts and crafts products will be included. “These will be the very best of the best,” he says.

For more information, please visit indianaartisan.com.