WATCH IT: Prepare for an extraordinary journey into the vision and inspiration of craft artists across America via the three-part television series, “Craft in America,” airing May 30 on PBS stations. In each of the episodes — “Memory,” “Landscape” and “Community,” viewers will meet celebrated craft artists and see how they work. The relationship between what they do, how they do it and why they have chosen to create objects of art and beauty is explored in visits to the places where they work and draw inspiration. Some of the artists featured include Sam Maloof and George Nakashima, iconic furniture-makers; Mary Jackson, a South Carolina basket weaver; Richard Notkin, a Montana potter; and Tom Joyce, a New Mexico blacksmith. The three hour-long episodes will air on WTTW-Ch. 11 beginning at 8 p.m. with “Memory”; 9 p.m., “Landscape”; 10 p.m., “Community.” Clarkson-Potter will publish a companion book, “Craft in America: Celebrating Two Centuries of Artists and Objects” by Jo Lauria and Steve Fenton (304 pages, $60) in the fall.
— Mary Daniels
SHOP IT: The new flagship Wickes Furniture store, the first showroom in Chicago, is holding the last two day’s of its grand opening celebration Sunday and Monday. On Monday, Michael Payne, host of HGTV’s “Designing for the Sexes” will conduct design seminars for smaller living spaces. The new showroom, 2606 N. Elston Ave., is more than 48,000 square feet, with 8,500 square feet-plus dedicated to Wickes’ new “Urban Innovations” line, a “metro line” of furniture and accessories. Special store hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday. Call: 773-235-9380.
— M.D.
SHOP IT: In celebration of the second anniversary of the home furnishing store at home, 3062 N. Lincoln Ave., owner Kerry Delaney is offering a 20 percent markdown on all items in the store through June. Call 773-472-0800.
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— M.D.
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