The History of Craft Alliance & The Buildings We Call Home

Craft Alliance started as an Artist Co-op in 1964 promoting the production, enjoyment, and understanding of the craftsman artist. A gallery space in the Central West End held monthly exhibits, showing work from regional artists in glass, metal, jewelry, sculpture, wood, and textiles. In 1968 classes were offered to kids aged 12-16 and were held at the Second Presbyterian Church.

Image copyright University City Public Library Circa 1960

In 1970 Craft Alliance moved into the Bond Building on Delmar Boulevard, the oldest surviving building in the Delmar Loop. It was build in 1910 by Max Bond for his tailoring shop. A pharmacy, salon and Italian restaurant were among a variety of businesses that called this building home before Craft Alliance settled in.

Image copyright University City Public Library Circa 1970

In 1976 Craft Alliance renovated space next to its Delmar location creating room for the ceramics studio we have today.

A vintage photograph, from a marketing publication of builder H.B. Deal from buildstlouis.net

In 2008 Craft Alliance opened its second location in the old Woolworths Building. A new Exhibition Gallery, expanded Outreach Programming, and Education Programming with Artist Residencies provide the St. Louis community with greater access to contemporary studio craft art.

Located in the new Big Brothers Big Sisters building right next to the Fox Theatre, Craft Alliance is part of the Kranzberg Arts Center. Classes are offered in Clay, Metal, Fibers, Graphics and more. Craft Alliance and the buildings it occupies have a rich history and a promising future.