This lavishly-illustrated book by Carmella Padilla examines the role of folk artists in the twenty-first century, recognizing their power as creative and socially responsible champions for global change, connection, and cultural sustainability.

Through interviews with folk artists from Mali to Madagascar to Cuba, Peru, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and beyond, Padilla introduces us to individuals and communities who are using their handmade traditions to overcome poverty, gender inequity, environmental degradation, ethnic conflict, and limited opportunities for political, educational, and social advancement.

At the heart of this story is the work of the International Folk Art Market in Santa Fe, New Mexico, which, since its inception in 2004, has become a major force in the personal and economic empowerment of more than a million international folk artists and their communities.

With nearly 200 photographs of folk artists and their creations, including a gallery of images of folk art masterworks, The Work of Art is an elegant and thoughtful examination of folk art and artists that emphasizes its relevance for all who value ideals of beauty, history, diversity, and community.

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