Simple Folk
Art Paint Projects
Folk art has been around for ages, but with the boom of the art market in the latter half of the twentieth century, this popular means of expression has developed a network of galleries, practicing artists and avid collectors. Sometimes defined as the visual output of untrained artists, traditional folk art has had an influence on many successful modern artists. Following are some insights into simple folk art painting projects that can be completed in your home.
Still Life
Still life is an old painting tradition that can also be a worthy introduction to a folk art style of painting. Still life paintings can vary greatly in complexity, beginning with painting one solitary object or involving a complex composition of many objects found around the house. Start with one object and render that object in whatever manner seems most appropriate. You can use a time-honored subject, such as a vase of flowers, or something modern and offbeat like a yellow plastic flashlight. Composition is important and sometimes complex, but simplicity of form is also possible, depending on your subject matter.
Self-portrait
The self portrait is important to folk art, for it gives us great insight into how folk art can be created from something you see every time you look in a mirror. A good place to begin is by sitting down in front of the mirror and sketching the shape and form of your own face. Don't be intimidated by realistic art, just concentrate on recreating what you see on a piece of paper, slab of wood or even a canvas. Faces are everywhere and come with a standard set of features, and yet few artistic endeavors have yielded such complex, fascinating and varied results. The many self-portraits made by untrained artists radiate charm and originality, despite sometimes lacking accurate draftsmanship or skin color.
Folk Art Scenes
Recreating scenes from everyday life is one activity that has made folk art so popular. Drawing a portrait, a self-portrait, a still life or just a small corner of your home is a great activity for any artist, including folk artists, but the real test comes when you try to create the interaction of place and people that makes your own personal experience stand out. What is so fascinating about folk art is that even everyday people can make a simple event, such as attending church or watching a baseball game, come alive on a piece of paper or sheet of plywood.
