Episode 10 | SL Jones: Carving His Name into Folk Art History

Welcome to another insightful episode of the House of Folk Art podcast, hosted by the ever-enthusiastic Matt Ledbetter. In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of SL Jones, a revered figure in the folk art community. Below is a detailed summary of our conversation, providing a comprehensive overview for those who missed the live session.

Introduction to SL Jones
00:00:00 - 00:00:12
The episode kicks off with Matt expressing his admiration for SL Jones, setting the tone for an engaging discussion about this remarkable artist. SL Jones is introduced as a key figure in the folk art community, known for his distinctive carvings and later, his drawings. Matt's enthusiasm sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of Jones' life and work.

Early Works and Transition
00:00:12 - 00:00:35
Matt discusses the variety of SL Jones' works that have passed through Leadbetter Auctions, highlighting his transition from carving intricate wooden heads to detailed drawings after developing arthritis. He mentions that the auction house has seen many of Jones' pieces, ranging from early detailed carvings to later, less refined works. This segment provides insight into how Jones adapted his artistry due to physical limitations.

Distinctive Style and Personal History
00:00:35 - 00:01:21
The conversation shifts to the unique characteristics of Jones' early carvings, noted for their detail in the chin, mouth, and eyes. Matt and his co-host share anecdotes about Jones' life in Hinton, West Virginia, where he worked for the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad for 45 years before retiring to pursue whittling and carving full-time. They also touch on his musical talents as a fiddler in a local band, painting a picture of a multi-talented and dedicated artist.

Comparing Artists and Techniques
00:01:21 - 00:02:08
Matt and his co-host compare SL Jones' work to that of other artists like Larry Ballard, emphasizing Jones' distinctive, less polished style. They discuss the materials Jones used, such as hardwoods and wood chisels, and how his carvings were recognizable despite their crude appearance. This segment highlights the individuality and authenticity of Jones' work in the folk art world.

Auction Highlights and Value of Folk Art
00:02:08 - 00:03:27
The hosts dive into an auction of an SL Jones head, illustrating the lively and competitive nature of folk art auctions. They provide insight into the fluctuating value of folk art, recounting examples of past auction results and emphasizing the importance of timing and demand. Matt shares stories of surprising auction outcomes, underscoring how the perceived value of art can vary significantly from day to day.

Documenting and Preserving Collections
00:03:27 - 00:04:32
Matt encourages folk art collectors to document their collections, suggesting that a book could accompany a collection, preserving its history and stories for future generations. He argues that creating a catalog of one's collection not only adds value but also serves as a legacy for future generations. This practical advice is peppered with humor and personal anecdotes, making it both informative and entertaining.

Heartfelt Stories and Personal Connections
00:04:32 - 00:06:17
Matt shares a touching story about Jones' refusal to sell a carved bust of a family member, only agreeing after being offered a high-quality photograph in return. This segment delves into the personal and sentimental value of folk art, highlighting how artists and their families often form deep emotional connections to their work. It also touches on the challenges faced by the families of famous folk artists, who sometimes end up with little to nothing from the artist's legacy.

Collecting for Love and Investment
00:06:17 - 00:07:59
The hosts reflect on the motivations of collectors, balancing passion with the potential for financial gain. They discuss how new collectors can look to established collections for guidance and inspiration, and how the love for the art itself should always come first. Matt shares personal stories about his own collection and the influence of other notable collections, providing insight into the mindset of a dedicated folk art collector.

The Importance of Provenance and Storytelling
00:07:59 - 00:23:31
Matt and his co-host discuss the importance of provenance in high-value art, sharing a fascinating story about attempting to auction a Basquiat piece and the challenges of verifying and selling such high-profile art. They emphasize that provenance can make or break the value of a piece and recount various stories from the art world to illustrate this point. The episode wraps up with a lighthearted discussion on the significance of storytelling in folk art and a call to action for listeners to support the podcast.

We hope you enjoyed this recap of our latest episode. Stay tuned for more stories and insights from the world of folk art on the House of Folk Art podcast.