Folk Art

Folk art is an expression of a surviving tradition that is rooted in the indigenous culture and community of the world.  In contrast to fine art, folk art predominantly focuses on the decorative aspect as opposed to the aesthetic. Among the art’s most intriguing characteristics are the creative techniques applied by the artistically inclined individuals to produce artworks that encompass a range of utilitarian and decorative media such as straw, wood, and clay. Bidsquare makes exceptional examples in its collection of vintage and antique folk art for sale available at its live auction. 

 Unlike other sophisticated art forms that employ the methods of perspective and proportion, traditional decorative or utilitarian art is often an expression of a community’s authentic cultural identity and is different from academic or cosmopolitan artistic identity. Folk art was not accepted as an art form until the 19th century. These hand-made works, accompanied by traditional tools, earned acclaim for the post-industrial revolution urban mainstream. It is often difficult to describe folk art as a whole because of its diverse geographical prevalence and varied folk art. However, some techniques and patterns have been identified over the years. 

The folk art paintings for sale on Bidsquare have grown to include an array of artworks, including needlework weathervanes, and antique paintings from renowned artists like Ammi Phillips, Sheldon Peck, and Edward Hicks, along with several anonymous practitioners. Collectors and bidders will find the best vintage and antique American folk art paintings at Bidsquare fine art auctions.

Quick Facts about Folk Art

• In the 19th century, well-educated white Christian urbanites invented the term folk art to describe the quaint arts and crafts of rural societies. 
• Folk art has historically been dominated by red, green, and yellow.