The artists featured here have all received Folk Arts Apprenticeship Grants from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. The grants provided support as the artists passed on their skills to other community members. They are just a few of the more than 100 artists who have participated in the Folk Arts Apprenticeship Grant Program. Many more such dedicated artists are all around us, often working without recognition to keep traditions alive in homes, workplaces, and communities. They weave the tapestry of New Jersey folk life.

Culture in Context: A Tapestry of Expression is the New Jersey State Museum’s re-opening exhibition. It’s the first time the work of Folks Arts Apprenticeship Grant recipients has been shown together in the museum. During the exhibition there will be an ongoing artist residency programs, workshops, performances, and screenings. In addition, satellite exhibitions are taking place at New Jersey’s six regional folklife centers.

In partnership with NJN Public Television and Radio, the New Jersey State Museum has created this website to provide more information about the artists. Look for videos and interviews by checking out individual artists or by clicking NJN Media. There’s also a series of eight podcasts that delve deeper into many of the issues – you can subscribe through iTunes or listen right on your computer. New podcasts will be coming out each month.

The exhibition and website are divided into three sections: Community, Work, and Home. Some of the artists could have been featured in two or even three of the sections. (For instance, a dancer spends time at home making her costumes. In her work, she teaches others how to dance. She performs at community festivals.) However, seeing each artist through the prism of one particular "context" makes clear how important it is for developing and sustaining cultural expression.

As you browse through the website, walk the galleries, or listen to a podcast, ask yourself about your folk traditions – what are they, and in what "context" do you practice them? In your community, at work, at home? Who are the exceptional artists in your world?