Spector Craft Prize

Written By Dena Koehn

Celebrating Excellence in American Craft

The things made by hand matter differently. A handmade object carries the trace of its maker, the legacy of tradition, and the integrity of materials transformed through skill and vision. In preserving and celebrating craft, 
we preserve something essential about what it means to be human.

Through three interconnected programs, the Spector Craft Prize champions makers at pivotal moments in their careers through awards, mentorship, and community building—investing in those who will shape the future of American craft.

The Spector Craft Prize for Emerging Artists

Supporting the Next Generation

A juried prize honoring five exceptional makers with seven years
or less of studio practice.

  • $10,000 financial award

  • Mentorship opportunities

  • Participation in the Summit

  • Professional network development

Disciplines Include:

Ceramics, Textiles, Woodworking, Glass, Metalwork, Basketry, Paper Arts

Applications Open: November 11, 2025

Deadline: March 1, 2026

Learn more: https://spectorcraftprize.org/

Dena Koehn

Dena Koehn grew up in Rose City, a rural town in mid-Michigan, and moved to southern Michigan to attend Adrian College. She graduated in 2005 with a BFA in Studio Art and a BA in English. After school, she worked in marketing and sales. In 2016 Dena started teaching woodworking classes with Luke in a garage, which eventually became the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute. She has served many roles at the SBWI, including Outreach Coordinator, Shaker Box Instructor, Secretary, Treasurer, Board Member, Bookkeeper, and now Director of Operations. She is also the Event Coordinator and Social Media Director of the Great Lakes Woodworking Festival, an annual event which brings together the best woodworkers from the Great Lakes region.

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American Association of Woodturners