Haystack goes virtual for 2021

Craft school makes use of its pandemic timeout

- LESLIE LANDRIGAN

DEER ISLE—Haystack’s webinars, which in 2021 replace in-person craft courses, have attracted hundreds of viewers and gotten positive reviews, according to Paul Sacaridiz, executive director.

But they aren’t demonstrations on how to throw a pot or blow glass. Think TED Talk, Sacaridiz said in a phone interview. Haystack Mountain School of Crafts is offering 70 presentations from April through October, free and open to the public. They include artist talks, classes and guest lectures, as well as workshops on writing, mentorship and collaboration.

Why did Haystack decide to do free webinars? Sacaridiz said the pandemic caused Haystack’s staff to take stock of the school, founded in 1950. Haystack attracts faculty and students from around the world and ranks with significant craft schools like the Penland School of Craft and the Anderson Ranch Arts Center, according to the Craft in America nonprofit.