Folk Art by Robert Young

Folk Art by Robert Young.

Folk art has an artistic spirit and a historical resonance that almost defy description. The unique qualities that give it such enduring interest and appeal lie in its purity, its naivety and its immediate vitality, in its strong sculptural forms, its textural surfaces and patination, and its bold use of colour. Created largely for modest homes, these essentially functional items were made with a lack of pretension and instinctive approach that make them universally accessible.

This book draws together, for the first time, the many strands of folk art from across Europe, exploring the vernacular traditions of these artefacts, which have been created from local resources and influenced by regional styles. They reveal the imagination, spirit and ingenuity of the untrained, although often skilled, artists, craftsmen and craftswomen who made them.

Each discipline within folk art is considered in turn, including carved objects such as decoy birds and love tokens, functional household items such as baskets, rush lights and storage boxes, decorative metalwork, including weathervanes, textiles, toys and games, naïve paintings and trade signs, pottery and furniture. It delves into the origin of these items and their sometimes long-forgotten uses. Above all, this book helps you to appreciate the visual and tactile qualities that make these pieces so cherished and collectable. The final section includes advice on conversation of the various materials used, to help preserve their condition.

The examples of folk art – most of which have never before been published – are illustrated with photographs specially commissioned to convey their exceptional sculptural and textural qualities. Brought together, these artefacts provide a valuable reference book for collectors, inspiration to decorators specializing in this area, and a unique review of the traditions of European Folk Art for all those interested in cultural history.

Copies of this book can be ordered for £25 by contacting the gallery:

[email protected]

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