Brian Newton is one of a small number of artisans keeping alive the historic art of making brooms by hand. The owner of Broomcorn Johnny’s researches the history of brooms, which date back thousands of years, and uses tools from the late 19th and early 20th Centuries to revive obscure historical broom designs. His work can be found on television programs, in motion pictures, and in living history environments.
Brian is driven by the past, crediting history with igniting his romantic imagination, while the techniques of the broom-making process challenge his mechanical mind. He loves to explore colors, textures, and finishes. Despite his many years of working in the craft, he still finds it exciting to make new discoveries.
Artisans wishing to participate in the 2021 Directory of Traditional American Crafts™ may download applications by clicking here. Because of the uncertainty of mail delivery caused by the Pandemic, we have extended the deadline for entries. We will accept entries postmarked by February 15, 2021. Those selected will be notified after judging in April, 2021. The 2021 Directory of Traditional American Crafts™ will appear in the August 2021 issue of Early American Life.
1,991 days until America's Sestercentennial
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