Supporting local artists has been at the cornerstone of our business since 1968. Nearly every day, artists come to our front door prior to opening, yielding stacks of paintings, carvings, jewelry and pottery for us to select from. They come to share their new work with us, often inspired by the island’s natural color palette, flora, fauna and the animals in which inhibit the pastures and surrounding waters. We have the pleasure of proudly representing these artists, helping tell their story to those who appreciate original craftsmanship.
In this day and age, where our lives are increasingly technology-focused and we grow more distant from the joy of original handmade goods, we wanted to provide a way to encourage our younger generation to pursue the arts as a career path. In 2018, to mark our 50 year anniversary, Nantucket Looms established an annual scholarship to be awarded to a graduate of Nantucket High School interested in pursuing a career in the arts and studio arts including fiber arts, texile design or interior design by offering a concrete financial support to nurture one creative spirit, and in so doing, help keep the arts alive.
"As a graduate of Nantucket High School, I received generous financial support from the island community. My mother, Liz Winship, has always been very philanthropically minded, teaching me that it is important to 'pay it forward'. By establishing this scholarship with the help of my partners, Becky and Stephanie, we are encouraging those who live here to pursue a career that is rewarding and would be of value on Nantucket. The Community Foundation has helped us establish this fund that will support island students for years to come." -Bess Clarke, Partner
We have now awarded 3 of these scholarships. It has been a pleasure to watch these students dedicate their education to art as well as learn all the ways in which art can exist in daily life.