SNIPPET: The Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show, one of the country's most prestigous events, showcases some of the best names in craft throughout the USA. The 28th annual show will be held November 4-7, 2004. On average, more than 25 thousand people attend over the four-day period. The Guest Artist Programme is an initiative which was first introduced four years ago whereby a guest country is invited to participate. This year, Ireland is the chosen county, and 23 Irish craftspeople will attend, as well as eight Irish basket makers, who will exhibit their work at the show. According to Helen LYNCH, of the Crafts Council of Ireland, the Philadelphia show is a very exciting opportunity for many of the group to establish a name for themselves in the USA. During the course of the show, some of the artists will have an opportunity to demonstrate their craft. These displays are very popular and well attended by the public. Selected Irish participants include jewellers, woodturners, ceramic artists, workers in textiles, stained glass and rug makers. Having seen the quality and calibre of the exhibitors, the Crafts Council is predicting that the Irish contingent will take the show by storm. The Art Craft Show is presented annually by the Women's Committee and Craft Show Committee for the benefit of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Funds raised are used to purchase works of art and crafts for the permanent collections, to fund conservation and publication projects and to support future exhibitions and education programs. Gross sales for the artists average 3 million dollars each year.. .