Celebrating the Future of Fiber Arts

At h+h americas, we launched the NexGen Artist Initiative to honor emerging creators who were redefining the future of the craft and textile industry. This annual program spotlighted rising stars in fiber arts—young visionaries whose work blended artistry, innovation, and purpose.

Each year, we featured one exceptional artist whose story embodied the spirit of h+h americas: creativity, inclusion, and community. From quilts and crochet to storytelling and entrepreneurship, these individuals made a lasting impact on the craft industry and its future.

Why the NexGen Initiative Mattered

The NexGen Artist Initiative reflected the belief that the future of fiber is already in motion—and it starts with bold, creative young people ready to lead. This initiative elevated new voices, celebrated innovation, and connected generations through shared passion for handmade excellence.

By honoring artists like Genesis Hall and Jonah Larson, h+h americas helped shine a spotlight on the makers shaping what’s next in the world of crafts.

2025 NexGen Artist: Jonah Larson

In 2025, Jonah Larson, also know as @johanshands was celebrated as the NexGen Artist at h+h americas.

Jonah, a crochet prodigy from LaCrosse, Wisconsin, brought global recognition and heartfelt purpose to the show. Through his business, Jonah’s Hands, he inspired audiences to connect through fiber arts and give back through creativity.

Jonah’s story and work had been featured in The New York Times, Forbes, Oprah Magazine, and on national shows including The Today Show and The Drew Barrymore Show. At h+h americas, he showcased his crochet artistry in the NexGen Feature Area near Entrance Hall A and took the Main Stage to share his journey.

His motto—“Crochet Brings the World Together One Stitch at a Time”—captured the heart of the event and its community.

2024 NexGen Artist: Genesis Hall

The inaugural NexGen Artist in 2024 was Genesis Hall, also known as @gennyfromthequiltblock, a dynamic voice in the new generation of quilters.

Highlights of Genesis’s participation included:

• 🎨 A show-stopping pixel quilt that became one of the most photographed installations at the event

• 🎤 A Main Stage fireside chat on May 2, 2024, with Irina Shaar of Fiberchats, where she discussed her creative journey and the next generation of quilting

• ✨ A prominent presence in the NexGen Feature Area, located near Entrance Hall A, where attendees engaged with her work up close

Genesis set the tone for the NexGen program with her authenticity, artistry, and fresh perspective—paving the way for future honorees.