Episode 20 | Folk Art at the Smithsonian: Elevating Self-Taught Artists to National Recognition
In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter and Kyle Sheetz dive into Kyle’s recent trip to the Smithsonian American Art Museum, where he explored the folk art collection on display. They discuss the significance of the works shown and share personal reflections on the art that captures the essence of self-taught artists. Matt brings his expertise to the conversation, offering insights on how the Smithsonian's exhibit elevates folk art, and what it means for these artists to have their work showcased in such an esteemed space. As they discuss everything from Sam Doyle’s iconic paintings to the impressive scale of James Hampton’s creations, the duo highlights the importance of folk art in preserving American history and culture.
CHAPTERS
00:00:30 - 00:03:00 | First Impressions of the Smithsonian
Kyle starts the conversation by describing the excitement of seeing folk art firsthand at the Smithsonian. The first piece that captured his attention was a large, glowing work by James Hampton, a self-taught artist from South Carolina, best known for his visionary work The Throne of the Third Heaven of the Nations Millennium General Assembly. Hampton, who worked as a janitor in Washington, D.C., spent years creating this monumental piece as a testament to his faith, believing it would serve as a throne for the Second Coming of Christ. His work, discovered after his death, has since become an iconic example of visionary folk art. He goes on to explain how important it is for folk artists like Hampton to receive recognition in national institutions like the Smithsonian, where their art can be appreciated by a broader audience.
00:03:00 - 00:06:00 | The Importance of Folk Art in Museums
Matt and Kyle discuss why it is so significant to see folk art showcased in a world-class institution like the Smithsonian. For Matt, it’s about elevating the self-taught artist and proving that their work has as much value as the more traditional works typically found in such spaces. He reflects on how these museums, by exhibiting folk art, provide a foundation for understanding American history and culture. The conversation transitions into the idea that folk art should be recognized as an integral part of the art world, especially since these artists often create work that speaks to personal histories, community traditions, and a unique perspective on American life. Matt explains that when folk art is displayed in prominent museums, it sets the stage for more serious academic and market-based conversations about its significance.
00:06:00 - 00:09:00 | Exploring Sam Doyle and Clarence Woosley
The conversation shifts to the specific pieces on display, with Matt drawing attention to Sam Doyle’s work. One such piece—a large, well lit, expressive creation—is front and center as visitors enter the museum. This piece speaks to the powerful storytelling in Doyle’s work. Matt also references other Southern artists in the exhibit, such as Clarence Woosley, who is known for his distinctive, outsider style. Kyle’s excitement grows as they examine the artistic details, with Matt pointing out how some works have been overlooked historically. As the discussion unfolds, they explore the story behind these lesser-known pieces and why they deserve more recognition. This segues into a broader discussion about the diverse regionalism of folk art across the country.
00:09:00 - 00:12:00 | The Unlikely Fame of Folk Art
Matt reflects on how certain folk artists—like Sam Doyle—gain recognition while others remain relatively unknown. He points out that while it’s rewarding to see a self-taught artist’s work celebrated in a national museum, there are still countless artists whose work deserves that same level of recognition. Kyle chimes in with the idea that sometimes, folk art’s perceived value is influenced by its historical context and where it’s displayed. For example, many artists don’t gain fame until decades after their work has been created. Matt shares a personal story about learning the origins of a piece and how it came to be showcased in a museum. They both agree that part of the challenge in elevating folk art is simply getting the right pieces into the right spaces—like the Smithsonian—where they can gain visibility and respect.
00:12:00 - 00:15:00 | The Smithsonian’s Role in Folk Art Preservation
As the conversation moves forward, Matt and Kyle discuss the importance of institutions like the Smithsonian in preserving and displaying folk art. Matt emphasizes that museums play an essential role in connecting the public to the history and significance of folk art, as well as creating a dialogue around the work of self-taught artists. While the Smithsonian is a major institution, Matt believes it’s essential for smaller, regional museums to also participate in this process. He cites examples like the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) and other regional museums in North Carolina, where folk art is carefully curated and displayed with an emphasis on preserving regional traditions. Museums like these help contextualize the work of artists within the broader scope of American history, showcasing the stories behind the objects, the artists, and the communities they represent.
00:15:00 - 00:18:00 | Folk Art Outside the Southeast: Broader Perspectives
Matt and Kyle turn their attention to folk art beyond the Southeastern United States, with Matt pointing out that folk art is not confined to one geographic region. While the Southeast, particularly the Lowcountry, has a rich folk art tradition, other areas—like the Southwest—also feature significant folk art movements. Matt mentions how folk art is prevalent in places like Arizona, New Mexico, and California, where it reflects the cultural and historical landscapes of those regions. Kyle adds that one of the most powerful aspects of folk art is its adaptability across cultures, which allows it to flourish in any region. They agree that the Smithsonian’s collection, with pieces from all corners of the country, shows the diversity of folk art and its universal appeal.
00:18:00 - 00:22:00 | The Thrill of the Folk Art Hunt
Next, Matt recalls the excitement and thrill of picking, or hunting for rare and valuable pieces of folk art. He explains how important it is to see folk art firsthand, and how that tactile connection helps deepen the understanding of the artist’s intentions. The conversation shifts toward auctions, where Matt shares his tips for navigating the bidding process. He advises collectors to be strategic and not get caught up in the frenzy of bidding wars. Matt emphasizes that it’s not always about getting the highest-priced item; it’s about finding pieces that resonate personally. The duo talks about the satisfaction of finding a hidden gem in an auction, something that might not be as famous but holds immense artistic and historical value.
00:22:00 - 00:27:00 | Museums, Auctions, and Personal Connections
Matt and Kyle dive into the personal connections they’ve made with other collectors, artists, and auction houses over the years. Matt notes how these relationships help foster a community around folk art, allowing new collectors to learn from more experienced ones. He explains how trust and reputation are essential in the folk art market, and how these networks play a significant role in elevating the market. As the conversation continues, they reflect on the ways that museums, auctions, and personal relationships help create a thriving ecosystem for folk art.
00:27:00 - 00:30:00 | Wrapping Up: The Ever-Evolving Folk Art World
In the final moments of the episode, Matt and Kyle reflect on the growth and evolution of the folk art world. They talk about how more people are getting involved in collecting and appreciating folk art, and how museums are helping to share these stories with a larger audience. The conversation ends on a hopeful note, with Matt encouraging listeners to take the time to explore folk art museums, attend auctions, and support the artists who continue to keep these traditions alive.
This episode of House of Folk Art is a deep dive into the world of folk art, from the Smithsonian’s collection to the exciting world of auctions and picking. Matt and Kyle share personal stories, insights, and practical tips for collectors, and emphasize how important it is to preserve and appreciate folk art as an essential part of American history and culture. Whether you're a longtime collector or just starting out, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the folk art world and its place in modern art appreciation.