Monday, March 15, 2010

THOUGHTS ON NOVA SCOTIA FOLK ART

Folk Art or "art from the heart" created by self-taught artists illustrates wit and spontaneity, an imaginative and diverse use of materials as well as a lively and vivid use of colour. This creative art form consistently brings laughter and joy to the viewer.  It is an essential element of Nova Scotia's rich visual culture.

Some believe that the widespread surge of folk art creativity can, in part, be attributed to pensions. Financial freedom gave many individuals  an opportunity to express themselves artistically. It is often reported by the artists that they began carving in their sheds during the winter, offering their creations as gifts to family and friends.  Before long, requests were made by other relatives and friends to receive a carving for their birthday or Christmas. The folk artists often report that they were much bemused by the enthusiasm with which their creations were received and happily gifted their carvings.  Generally, these were not considered as pieces of art by the creator until someone came along and  offered payment.  So what began as a way of pleasantly passing away the cold winter days grew into recognition of artistic merit and a defined style of art. 

Most artists report that whittling away on a piece of wood,often pine, gives them great pleasure.  They feel relaxed and are able to lose themselves in their creation.  At times, the artist looks at a piece of wood and based on its shape has a strong sense of what they are going to make. Other times, inspiration comes from other sources.  The more known artists get specific requests.  Recently, while visiting one of the artists a customer was there picking up a stunning mermaid as a retirement gift for her husband.

Although many artists are retired having worked on the land, fishing or other occupations, the majority of folk artists continue to have employment and work at their creations in their spare time.  It is noted that most carvers are males and most painters are females.  I only know of two women who are presently carving.

The l976 opening of Folk Art in Nova Scotia exhibit at Halifax, which, at the end of its travels, was installed at the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Ottawa, did much to further the acceptance and appreciation of Nova Scotia Folk Art.

Sunday, February 28, 2010

First Post

HELLO FOLK ART FRIENDS, I AM WRITING THIS BLOG BECAUSE I SEE THAT MANY OF YOU VISIT MY WEBSITE ON A REGULAR BASIS SO I THOUGHT THAT I WOULD GIVE YOU SOMETHING TO LOOK AT IN ADDITION TO THOSE GORGOUS PIECES OF FOLK ART. I WOULD LIKE TO CHAT WITH YOU FROM TIME TO TIME AND KEEP YOU INFORMED ABOUT THE ART AND ITS ARTISTS AS I EXPERIENCE THEM.