BALTIMORE, MARYLAND.- Applications for the 2006 NICHE Awards are now available online at www.AmericanCraft.com. A revamped web page provides artists with the choice of completing an online application or downloading a paper version that can be printed and mailed. Other useful information includes updated rules and guidelines, as well as information about the 2006 NICHE Awards ceremony, special display and finalist notifications.

The NICHE Awards, sponsored by NICHE magazine, celebrate excellence and innovation in American and Canadian craft. Entry deadline for professionals is September 7, 2005; entry deadline for students is September 30, 2005.

Categories include Ceramics, Fiber, Glass, Metal, Wood, Jewelry, Lighting, Clocks, Clothing, Decorative Fiber, Garden Art, Goblets, Judaica, Mixed Media, Narrative, Recycled, and Teapots.

Judging criteria are based on three main distinctions:
… technical mastery, both in surface design and form
… market viability
… a distinct quality of unique, original and creative thought

Finalists are invited to display their work in the NICHE Awards exhibit at the February Philadelphia Buyers Market of American Craft, February 17-20, 2006, and will be included in the Winter 2006 issue of NICHE magazine. Winners will be announced at the February 2006 Buyers Market and featured in the Spring 2006 issue of NICHE magazine.