USA -- Designers, artists and manufacturers are invited to apply for exhibit space in three juried, design-focused divisions of the New York International Gift Fair (NYIGF): Accent on Design; A+: The Young Designer’s Platform; and Handmade. Accepted applicants will participate in the summer 2009 market, which runs Saturday, August 15, through Thursday, August 20, in New York City.

“Our juries review emerging talents as well as established companies for consideration,” said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director. “The review and selection process ensures that these divisions present the freshest and most unique contemporary design and handcrafted products.”

Accent on Design
Accent on Design has been the gift and home industry’s leading resource for design-led merchandise for 25 years. Nearly 200 exhibitors across all categories make up this dynamic collection of contemporary and innovative product lines.

The Selection Committee’s criteria for acceptance into this division include: original, creative and authentic product design; new and innovative use of materials; products which address and solve problems; consistent and continuous new product creations; a focus on contemporary design (as perceived by the jury); and functionality.

Accent on Design jury members include: Ilene Shaw, Shaw + Co! Productions; David Reid/James Klein, KleinReid; and Miguel Calvo, Design & Research.

Accent on Design applications, which are available online, will be accepted through Monday, March 30, 2009.

A+: The Young Designer’s Platform
Launched in February 2008 as a showcase within Accent on Design, A+ provides young designers with an affordable opportunity to expose their concepts, prototypes and finished products to the wholesale marketplace.

Applications for A+ are accepted only from design students, recent graduates and emerging companies (in business for one year or less). Submissions will be juried by the Accent on Design selection committee (listed above) based on design concept, creativity and originality.

A+ application, which are available online, will be accepted through Friday, June 12.

Handmade
For more than 20 years, Handmade has offered buyers an extensive selection of handcrafted items across such categories as tabletop, ceramics, textiles, home décor, jewelry and apparel. The division, which features 575 artisans from 36 American states and 13 countries worldwide, offers special identification of “designer-makers,” as well as a special “Handmade in the USA” showcase area.

In order for a product to be accepted into Handmade, it must meet stringent jury criteria, which include uniqueness, originality, authenticity, and marketability. Handmade jury members include Carol Sedestrom Ross, GLM; Alden Smith, Aid to Artisans; John Gilvey, Hudson Beach Glass; Michael Michaud, Table Art/Silver Seasons; and Ellen Corsell, Blue Heron American Crafts Gallery.

Handmade applications, which are available online, will be accepted through Monday, March 30, 2009.
 
New York International Gift Fair