Galleries Visual Arts

American Folk Art: 2018 Wish List Celebration

Lookout Angel. James A. “Buddy” Snipe, artist

Throughout December, American Folk Art holds its Wish List Celebration, showcasing affordable pottery, paintings and sculptural forms from some of the South’s most beloved and collectible self-taught artists. Throughout the year, owner Betsey-Rose Weiss selects pieces for the holiday season that reflect artists’ individualism and lend themselves to gift-giving and home decoration. “This allows our clients to give gifts and decorate their homes with original art in original ways,” she says.

Among the artists whose work has become a traditional presence at this annual event and who will be returning with new work this year are Lonnie and Twyla Money, Liz Sullivan, Cornbread and James A. “Buddy” Snipes. Featured are pieces small enough to decorate a Christmas tree as well as larger works to add interest anywhere in a room. Cattle farmers and co-creators in woodworking, the Moneys live in Kentucky where they create in a milking barn repurposed as a studio. The two are known for their fine carvings and whimsical depictions of animals and people. Their handcarved and hand-painted critter ornaments will be available during the Wish List Celebration.

Snipes was born in Alabama and began making toys for himself as a child. He incorporates a highly creative, make-do element in his art, using found objects such as roots, tree limbs and scrap lumber. “To honor this season of light, Buddy Snipes has created a couple of wonderful pieces that would be amazing on a mantel with a few lights added,” Weiss says.

Miniature pieces by Sullivan, who uses acrylics, pencil and crayon to create paintings inspired by the beauty of Western North Carolina, and by Cornbread, a Georgia artist who paints delightful critters, will also be available.

“When thinking of gifting, we all have budgets to honor,” says Weiss. “I believe beauty and good design elements know no price point, so bring your wish list and let us help in selecting something wonderful.”

American Folk Art and Framing is located at 64 Biltmore Avenue in Asheville. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. For more information, visit AmeriFolk.com or call 828.281.2134.

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