I first met Keith Recker when I was serving on the Board of Directors of Aid To Artisans, that remarkable organization which, under the stewardship of Clare Brett Smith, inspired the sensitive development of the craft sector around the globe. Keith, with a deep background in design, craft and marketing, joined the board and, later, served as president of ATA. He also became a very good and loyal friend.
In my view, one of Keith’s most impressive successes – and there have been many – is Hand/Eye Magazine, a gorgeous broadsheet publication that explores, on his words, “the nexus between design and development, culture and commerce, art and craft, and environment and ethics.” Huge concepts, these, and subjects given intelligent, in-depth attention by knowledgeable writers and accomplished photographers in quarterly issues. Profits from magazine sales are divided among several non-profit agencies working to address artisan issues.
