With a career spanning more than two decades, Marcia Young has been a transformative force in art and fine craft. As the founder of the Fiber Art Network, former publisher, editor-in-chief of Fiber Art Now magazine, and author, Young has tirelessly championed the visibility and value of fiber arts. Now, as the executive director of the Society of Arts and Crafts, she brings her passion and vision to a broader creative community.
In our recent Q&A with Young, she reflected on the evolving role of fiber arts, shared how her past experiences have informed her current leadership, and offered a glimpse into the mindset that has guided her remarkable journey.
Over the past 20-plus years, I have witnessed remarkable changes in how fiber arts are perceived and valued worldwide. During my decade as publisher and editor-in-chief of Fiber Art Now, our primary goal was to broaden the world of fiber arts and textiles. We focused on sharing the work of artists, highlighting events and organizations, and connecting with the community. One of our proudest achievements was the launch of Excellence in Fibers, our first juried exhibition, which opened the door to partnerships with museums across the country.
Since then, that program has grown to encompass a wide range of mediums and themes, helping Fiber Art Now play a significant role in increasing the visibility of fiber arts and textiles across the United States and worldwide. Today, as fiber arts continue to gain momentum and recognition, I find it just as exhilarating as when we first embarked on this journey in 2011.
Marcia Young with the cover of Fiber Art Now, Summer 2019_Olga Was Never a Wallflower by Dawn Waters (in Marcia’s collection).
Fiber arts bring a unique and dynamic quality to the Society of Arts and Crafts’ mission by showcasing a medium that is both deeply rooted in tradition and endlessly innovative. Its inherent versatility allows makers to push boundaries, blending techniques, materials, and cultural narratives from across disciplines. The tactile and adaptable nature of fiber fosters cross-disciplinary exploration, encouraging makers to experiment with other mediums and expand the possibilities of their work. Fiber’s accessibility also bridges the gap between creators and audiences, offering a relatable and engaging entry point into the world of craft. Whether through storytelling, innovation, or the preservation of heritage techniques, fiber arts spark connections, ignite curiosity, and inspire creativity across generations and communities.
I joined the Society of Arts + Crafts (SAC) at an exciting time in my career, when I was ready to embrace a new challenge. It was my first opportunity to work closely with a board of directors and an executive committee, a dynamic I found incredibly rewarding. At Fiber Art Now, I had an extraordinary team—one that remains intact to this day—but we operated in a more insular way, often relying on improvisation to navigate challenges. This new chapter with SAC has allowed me to experience a broader, collaborative approach to leadership and strategic planning.
One of the very first issues of Fiber Art Now.
Looking back at the early days of Fiber Art Now, I remember being so immersed in it that I spent countless nights sitting at my dining room table, figuring out the logistics—everything from creating and shipping a magazine on my own to setting up a simple website and subscription service. The real secret is that discovering and showcasing the most exciting work and artists was truly my greatest joy. Over the years, I’ve shared with many people that one of the biggest motivations behind launching Fiber Art Now was the opportunity it gave me to meet and interview the fiber artists I admired so deeply. Honestly, I didn’t spend much time worrying about failure—I just knew in my heart that the fiber art and textiles community was there, ready and waiting.
Professionally, I’m eager to embrace new challenges, particularly within an organization that fosters makers or supports creative communities. My focus is on finding a role where I can make a meaningful impact and contribute to advancing the organization’s mission.
On a personal note, even after all these years, I still find myself constantly drawn to fiber artists, immersing myself in their work. My passion for it hasn’t faded one bit—some loves truly do last forever. I’m certain my future holds plenty of time at the pottery wheel and behind the sewing machine!
Marcia Young’s visionary leadership has elevated fiber arts, from founding Fiber Art Now to directing the Society of Arts and Crafts. Her passion and dedication continue to inspire makers and creative communities worldwide.
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Cami Smith is the Fiber Art Now media manager, community engagement coordinator, and a mixed-media artist.
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