What Is Folk Art in History?

Art|Art History

Folk art is a term used to describe creative works produced by people who are not traditionally trained in the arts. It includes items made for practical use, such as furniture, clothing, quilts, toys and tools, as well as decorative items such as pottery and other ceramics, jewelry and textiles. It also includes music, dance, oral stories and other forms of expression.

Folk art has been around since ancient times, but the term was coined in the mid-19th century by folklorists in Europe. They were interested in collecting and studying traditional folk songs and stories that were passed down orally from one generation to another. They also studied items used by common people such as tools, clothing and religious artifacts.

In the United States during the early 20th century, folk art flourished due to increased interest in rural life and nostalgia for simpler times. Artists like Grandma Moses gained widespread recognition for their naive paintings of rural scenes. During this time period, many craftspeople began producing decorative items such as quilts or carved figures.

Folk art has continued to evolve over time. In recent decades artists have used contemporary materials like plastics or digital media to create works that explore issues of identity or social justice. Many museums now include collections of folk art alongside more traditional works from professional artists.

Conclusion:

Folk art is an important part of history and culture that dates back centuries. It encompasses a wide variety of creative works made by people who were not formally trained in the arts. From rural scenes painted by Grandma Moses to modern pieces exploring identity politics, folk art captures a unique view of society at different points in time.