Episode 15 | Pottery, Picking, and the Art of Folk: A Day with Marvin Bailey
In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter visits the workshop of Marvin Bailey, a renowned folk potter from South Carolina. Together, they explore the art of pottery, selecting unique pieces for auction while sharing stories from the world of picking and collecting. From flipping jugs to reflecting on the evolution of the folk art market, this episode dives deep into the craftsmanship and history behind these pieces.
Matt and Marvin's conversation covers everything from the changes eBay brought to picking, to the importance of letting art ‘breathe’ by allowing others to enjoy it. This episode is full of insights about art, collecting, and the auction world, offering a closer look at the personal and professional experiences that make these stories so meaningful.
Table of Contents
00:00 - 00:01:12 | Introduction: What is Picking?
00:01:12 - 00:02:53 | The Power of Picking
00:02:53 - 00:03:07 | The Impact of eBay
00:03:07 - 00:05:46 | A Visit to Marvin Bailey’s Studio
00:05:46 - 00:08:13 | Selecting Pottery for Auction
00:08:13 - 00:09:01 | The First 26 Pieces
00:09:01 - 00:10:06 | Hauling Folk Art
00:10:06 - 00:13:11 | Flipping Jugs and Sharing Stories
00:13:11 - End | The Craft of Pottery
00:00 - 00:01:12 | Introduction: What is Picking?
Matt kicks off the episode by explaining the essence of picking. He breaks down how a simple drive can turn into a treasure hunt, stopping at random houses and discovering valuable items hidden in basements.
00:01:12 - 00:02:53 | The Power of Picking
Matt shares the importance of having cash in hand during a picking adventure. With $3,000 in his pocket, he reflects on how his ability to spot treasures has evolved over time. Picking is not just about what you find—it's about the knowledge and experience you bring.
00:02:53 - 00:03:07 | The Impact of eBay
Matt reflects on how the introduction of eBay disrupted the picking world, as more collectors began holding back top items for online sales instead of taking them to auction.
00:03:07 - 00:05:46 | A Visit to Marvin Bailey’s Studio
Matt arrives at Marvin Bailey’s studio, excited to purchase pottery for his collection. They discuss the unique pieces Marvin has created and the excitement of finding such treasures.
00:05:46 - 00:08:13 | Selecting Pottery for Auction
Matt and Marvin begin selecting pieces for auction, from traditional alkaline glaze jugs to more unique works like devil and double-faced jugs. Matt admires Marvin’s craftsmanship and the detailed process behind each piece.
00:08:13 - 00:09:01 | The First 26 Pieces
They continue to pack and count the first batch of 26 pottery pieces, ready to head to auction. Matt shares his excitement for the upcoming auction and reflects on the uniqueness of Marvin’s creations.
00:09:01 - 00:10:06 | Hauling Folk Art
As they load up the van with pottery, Matt recalls a humorous comment about “taking care” of folk art, reminding listeners that folk art is meant to be transported and enjoyed in its raw form.
00:10:06 - 00:13:11 | Flipping Jugs and Sharing Stories
Matt flips jugs while sharing stories from the folk art world, including an anecdote about legendary artist James Harold Jennings. It’s a fun look into the world of collectors and their interactions with folk artists.
00:13:11 - End | The Craft of Pottery
Marvin begins shaping a face jug on the wheel, discussing the challenges of crafting pottery, from centering the clay to forming the intricate spout.