About the Guild:

The Folk Art Guild is an intentional community and craft center located in the heart of the Finger Lakes in Middlesex, NY. For over 50 years, Guild artisans have been producing fine crafts including pottery, woodworking, weaving, natural fiber clothing and folk toys. Membership includes both non-residents and residents. Residents live on-site year-round, sharing meals and working together in an effort to live more sustainably.

As a non-profit institution, the Guild offers education in traditional crafts through classes, residencies, and apprenticeships. The 350-acre farm is home to the East Hill Gallery, open May through October and displaying the work of Guild artists. The Folk Art Guild is part of an international network of groups studying the teachings of G.I. Gurdjieff.

Mission Statement:

To offer support and nourishment to all who are searching for a more conscious, creative, and responsible way of living.

In support of our Mission:

We gradually accustom ourselves to pay close attention to what is happening in both our inner and outer worlds during the unfolding of each day. Striving to cultivate a finer quality of attention we acknowledge the diverse impulses that arise inside us. In time this practice can bring a greater sense of inner balance and relatedness with ourselves, others and the world around us.

For us, practical work is a laboratory where we learn about the laws of nature, about our own desires and resistances, and about interacting with those around us. The challenge of working with crafts, farming and other natural processes can be a great help. What does it mean to do something well, with the whole of myself?
The way we work with our hands and our whole body is essential to human development throughout life. When the mind and the body together find the corresponding rhythm of work, we feel closer to our sense of being alive and the purpose of our time here on earth. With our hands and body we plant the seed in the soil, knead the bread in the kitchen and pull a pot from a mound of clay. When the mind is open and attentive, not interfering but rather quietly interacting with the intelligence of the hands and body, our heart awakens to a new understanding. Something in us yearns for this.
We celebrate the joys and face the frictions and difficulties of daily life together. With the help of those nearby I become both a teacher and a student, listening with less judgment and seeing some of my own shortcomings. Through personal effort combined with mutual support, cooperation and trust, we continue to build a community that nurtures the aspirations and talents of each person through acts of service, love, encouragement and self discipline.

Meet Some Community Members!

Michael Hunter
Michael HunterCommunity Garden Manager
Michael has been a Guild member for well over 35 years, and has worked extensively in many different craft areas. Currently he manages the Graphic Arts Studio, as well as co-managing the Community Garden.
Annie Schliffer
Annie SchlifferMaster Potter
Originally just stopping in fora  day visit, Annie has been working in the Pottery Studio at the Guild for over 40 years. Annie also teaches our weekly Yoga Classes and has been to India, China, and Peru to study both Ceramics and Yoga.
David Barnet
David BarnetMaster Woodworker
David has been working in our Woodshop Studio since he visited in the 1970’s and his passion for wood-turning has developed into a masterful art. David also manages the Orchards, and Publicity department.