Historical Background of Folk Art

 

 

Including Types of Folk Art

Far earlier than any historical records, humans have used an inner creativity to depict objects and to decorate objects around them.  This non-academic art has evolved into what is today commonly called folk art.  William Ketchum who, as of 2009, was on the faculty of the Folk Art Institute and very active at the Museum of American Folk Art in New York City, describes folk art as being represented by many often unrelated media.  

Besides woodcarving, Ketchum includes non-academic portraits as well as painting on various surfaces including furniture, wagons, signs, as well as houses.  Silhouettes may be considered folk art.  Sculptural forms include figureheads on ships, human forms such as tobacco-related Indians, etc., and toys for children.  Also included are models of ships and dollhouses.  Even everyday items such as baskets and boxes are often considered to be folk art.  Old fishing lures may also be folk art.

Anyone who watches Antiques Roadshow on PBS-TV is aware of the considerable value of antique stitched samplers done by young girls.  Although these samplers are often done under the instruction of adults, the samplers are considered to be folk art.  Quilts and rugs represent other categories of textiles.

Folk art consists of items that are useful as well as those created just for the sake of novelty.  Weathervanes and walking canes have purposes, but they may be intricately designed, purely decorative, or simple and utilitarian.  Whirligigs and other wind-related items are as varied as their creators.  Many folk art items have patriotic or religious themes.

Animals are a frequent folk art subject matter; these may include cast iron figures such as banks, doorstops, and andirons.  It is well known that duck and goose decoys are highly collectible and often quite valuable.  Less well known is that gravestones and sailors’ carvings are often considered to be folk art.

Woodcarving and items made with wood by folk artists with ties to the Western Tidewater region of southeast Virginia will be the area of exploration of this report.

Sources

Lewis, Charles.  "What’s in a Name: What Is an Outsider Artist?"  Lewis.  Charles Lewis, n.d.  Web.  <http://www.charleslewisart.com/blog/entry/whats-in-a-name-what-is-an-outsider-artist/>.
 
Ketchum, Jr., William C.  American Folk Art.  New York, NY: New Line Books Limited, 2009.  Print.