Episodes

  • Episode 24 | Getting Started with Outsider Art Collecting

    Episode 24 | Getting Started with Outsider Art Collecting
    Feb 17 2025
    In this episode of House of Folk Art, host Matt Ledbetter sits down with long-time collector and expert Brian Sieveking to discuss the ins and outs of collecting outsider and self-taught art. With over 40 years of experience, Brian shares his journey into the world of folk and outsider art, offering insights into how new collectors can start their own journey.Chapters00:00 - Introduction02:30 - Brian Sieveking's First Folk Art Find06:15 - How to Get Started in Outsider Art10:45 - Breaking the Intimidation Barrier14:20 - Best Folk Art Shows to Attend18:50 - Building Knowledge as a Collector22:30 - Investment Potential of Outsider Art26:15 - Avoiding Fakes & Finding Authentic Works30:00 - Final Thoughts & Advice for New CollectorsA Collector’s First PieceBrian’s collecting journey began as a teenager at Happy’s Flea Market in Roanoke, Virginia. He stumbled upon a face jug by Burlon Craig under a vendor’s table, unknowingly acquiring his first piece of folk art in exchange for a carton of cigarettes. His passion soon led him to legendary artists like Howard Finster, James Harold Jennings, and Georgia Blizzard. This early exposure to living artists set the stage for a lifetime of collecting.How to Get Started in Outsider ArtFor those new to outsider and self-taught art, Matt and Brian recommend attending live auctions specializing in this genre. Unlike museums, auctions allow collectors to handle pieces, examine them up close, and even take them home the same day. Whether it’s Slotin Folk Art Auctions or another reputable house, these events provide an immersive crash course in identifying and appreciating works by major outsider artists.Breaking the Intimidation BarrierThe art world often carries an air of exclusivity, but Brian reassures listeners that outsider art collectors are a welcoming community. Many assume the art market is elitist, but in reality, experienced collectors love to share knowledge and stories. Auctions and shows offer excellent opportunities to network, learn, and engage with both dealers and fellow enthusiasts.The Best Folk Art Shows to AttendBeyond auctions, folk art festivals and museum exhibitions provide essential exposure to outsider art. Some of the top events and institutions include:Kentuck Festival of the Arts (Alabama) – A long-running folk art gathering featuring many living artists.Finster Fest (Georgia) – Celebrating Howard Finster’s legacy with a festival at his famous Paradise Garden.Fearrington Folk Art Show (North Carolina) – A must-visit for folk art enthusiasts in the Southeast.Morehead Folk Art Center (Kentucky) – An excellent permanent collection of folk and outsider art.Hickory Museum of Art (North Carolina) – Home to an extensive folk art collection.Building Knowledge as a CollectorLearning about outsider art involves reading, attending shows, and immersing yourself in the culture. Key books for beginners include:Souls Grown Deep (Volumes 1 & 2) – Essential scholarship on Southern African American folk art.Baking in the Sun – A critical catalog on self-taught artists.Howard Finster biographies by Tom Patterson and John Turner – Deep dives into one of the most influential folk artists.The Corcoran Gallery’s Folk Art Catalog – A groundbreaking early survey of self-taught art.The Encyclopedia of Folk Art by the Rosenaks – A fantastic reference for discovering new artists.The Investment Potential of Outsider ArtOutsider art is still in the early stages of mainstream recognition. Matt compares it to Bitcoin when it was just $100—still affordable but likely to rise in value. Museums like the Met are just beginning to acknowledge outsider artists, meaning now is the perfect time to acquire pieces before they become unattainable.Brian and Matt encourage new collectors to start with artists like R.A. Miller, whose works are still affordable but destined to increase in value. As more museums begin acquiring outsider art, demand will drive up prices.Avoiding Fakes and Finding Authentic WorksAs the market for outsider art grows, so do fraudulent pieces. Buying from reputable dealers, galleries, and auction houses ensures authenticity. Many current collections on the market were purchased directly from the artists, providing a clear provenance. However, as demand rises, expect more fakes to emerge—just as we’re now seeing counterfeit Benny Carters.Final ThoughtsIf you’re intrigued by outsider art but don’t know where to begin, start small. Attend auctions, visit museums, read books, and explore shows. The world of self-taught art is vast, welcoming, and filled with opportunities for discovery. Whether you're looking for investment pieces or simply want to decorate your home with unique works, now is the time to dive in.Let us know in the comments if you’re new to collecting or if you have a favorite outsider artist! House of Folk Art is here to guide you every step of the way.
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    26 mins
  • Episode 23 | Auctions, Road Trips & Folk Art Legends with Brian Sieveking

    Episode 23 | Auctions, Road Trips & Folk Art Legends with Brian Sieveking
    Feb 3 2025
    In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter sits down with longtime folk art collector Brian Sieveking, a Professor in the Fine Arts Department at Virginia Western Community College. Brian has been in the folk art world for decades, attending historic auctions, meeting legendary artists, and collecting pieces that tell a rich story of the American South. From strategizing at the 1996 Lowe Collection auction to unforgettable road trips with Howard Finster, Brian shares a wealth of knowledge and experiences that shed light on the evolution of outsider art.This episode dives deep into the culture of collecting, the rise and fall of Folk Fest, and the moments that haunt a collector—like the painting he didn’t buy. Whether it's tales of artists who compulsively covered their homes in paint, or the booming outsider art market today, Brian and Matt explore what makes folk art so special.Chapters00:00:00 - 00:00:19 | Introducing Brian SievekingMatt introduces Brian, a longtime collector who was there for key moments in the folk art world, including the historic Lowe Collection auction.00:00:24 - 00:00:56 | The Sam Doyle Auction That Got AwayBrian recalls saving up for a Sam Doyle painting at the Lowe Collection auction, only to watch prices double before his eyes. His strategy fell apart as each piece soared past his budget.00:00:56 - 00:03:01 | Baking in the Sun: The Traveling Folk Art ExhibitionBrian discusses Baking in the Sun, one of the earliest major outsider art books, which introduced many collectors to the field.00:03:01 - 00:05:06 | The Scarcity of Sam Doyle Paintings TodayOnce plentiful at auctions, Sam Doyle’s works are now incredibly rare. Matt and Brian reflect on how collectors have held onto these prized pieces.00:05:06 - 00:07:29 | The Rise and Fall of Folk FestBrian takes us back to the first Folk Fest in Atlanta, where top dealers showcased the best outsider art. Within five years, competing folk art events sprang up—then suddenly, they were gone.00:07:29 - 00:09:45 | The Folk Art Piece That Haunts BrianAt Folk Fest, Brian passed on a Sam Doyle King Kong painting, only to see it later in a museum collection. The regret still lingers.00:09:45 - 00:13:20 | Seven Hours with Howard FinsterBrian shares the unforgettable experience of driving legendary folk artist Howard Finster seven hours back home. Finster talked the entire ride—about religion, UFOs, and everything in between.00:13:20 - 00:16:11 | A $1,000 Offer from Finster That Could Have Changed EverythingHoward once offered Brian an entire room of his paintings for $1,000. Brian couldn’t afford it at the time—now he wonders how that deal would have changed their relationship.00:16:11 - 00:20:09 | Cedar Creek Charlie: The Forgotten Folk ArtistMatt and Brian discuss Cedar Creek Charlie, an artist who covered his entire home—inside and out—in paintings. His work is now nearly impossible to find.00:20:09 - 00:26:29 | Defining Folk, Outsider, and Self-Taught ArtA deep dive into the endless debate: What qualifies as folk art? Matt explains the government’s original definition and how self-taught artists fit in.00:26:29 - 00:31:14 | The Lost Art of Folk Art HuntingBefore the internet, finding folk art meant road trips, personal connections, and blind luck. Brian reflects on the thrill of discovery before everything was online.00:31:14 - 00:34:50 | Jimmy Lee Sudduth Video and the Magic of Mud PaintingMatt recalls legendary Alabama artist Jimmy Lee Sudduth, who swore his mud-based paintings would last forever.00:34:50 - 00:39:01 | The Art You Don’t Buy is the Art You RegretA collector’s golden rule: You never regret what you buy—only what you pass on. Matt and Brian share stories of pieces they let slip away.00:39:01 - 00:42:10 | The Evolution of Folk Art CollectingWhat does it take to build a great collection? Brian emphasizes looking at as much art as possible before making a purchase.00:42:10 - End | The Future of Outsider ArtWith major auction houses now spotlighting outsider art, the field is more recognized than ever. But is it the “new thing” or has it always been?Matt and Brian’s conversation brings history to life, revealing how folk art went from hidden gems to a thriving part of the contemporary art world. From the legendary artists they met to the great pieces they let slip away, their stories offer a firsthand look at the highs and lows of collecting. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and a deep love for outsider art.
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    58 mins
  • Episode 22 | From Flea Markets to Drive-Thrus: Folk Art Reimagined

    Episode 22 | From Flea Markets to Drive-Thrus: Folk Art Reimagined
    Jan 20 2025

    In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter and Kyle Sheetz explore the colorful world of folk art and its connections to their personal and professional lives. From trading pottery for taxidermy to hilarious tales of pranks and podcast listener encounters, they dive deep into the stories that make folk art collecting so rewarding. With dreams of community spaces, a drive-thru folk art museum, and reflections on the challenges of balancing creativity and business, this episode is equal parts laughter, inspiration, and insight.

    Chapters

    00:00:00 - 00:02:15 | Meeting a Listener at the Raleigh Flea Market
    Kyle recounts an unexpected encounter at the flea market with a podcast listener who introduces him to unique folk art pieces, including Willie McCord’s face jugs and tin paintings.

    00:02:15 - 00:03:50 | Folk Art for Taxidermy: The Trade
    Matt shares his misadventure trading folk art for taxidermy heads. While initially excited, he soon realizes the challenges of selling massive taxidermy pieces.

    00:03:50 - 00:05:30 | The Chicken of the Woods Prank
    Matt hilariously recalls being tricked into eating a mushroom that tastes just like chicken, aptly called "Chicken of the Woods."

    00:05:30 - 00:07:50 | The Dream of a Drive-Thru Folk Art Museum
    The duo brainstorms the concept of a drive-thru folk art museum, complete with electric golf carts, to create an interactive experience for art enthusiasts.

    00:07:50 - 00:09:10 | Reflections on Folk Art Pioneers
    Matt and Kyle discuss the early pioneers of folk art auctions, from Kimball Sterling to Steve Sloan, and their contributions to the field.

    00:09:10 - 00:12:30 | Building Dreams in Gibsonville
    Matt describes his vision for Gibsonville: an 8,500 sq. ft. auction house paired with a massive gym to support the growing community.

    00:12:30 - 00:14:50 | Folk Art Justification: The Dollar Per Look Rule
    Matt humorously justifies the value of folk art by measuring its worth in “dollars per glance,” comparing it to the cost of museum visits.

    00:14:50 - 00:18:50 | Remembering Ab and His Legacy
    Matt shares touching stories about his late friend Ab, including their adventures and a memorable prank involving a plate of chicken—or was it?

    00:18:50 - 00:22:30 | Wrestling, Gyms, and Community Growth
    Matt talks about managing a wrestling club and gym amidst Gibsonville’s rapid growth, highlighting challenges in sports infrastructure for kids.

    00:22:30 - 00:27:00 | Lessons from 17 Years in Folk Art
    Reflecting on 17 years in the industry, Matt shares entrepreneurial lessons, from starting auctions to navigating the folk art market.

    00:27:00 - 00:29:10 | Bid Calling 101: A Lesson in Auctioneering
    Kyle gets a crash course in auctioneering from Matt, ending the episode with laughs and newfound skills.

    Matt and Kyle leave us with a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling, not just in folk art but in life itself. Their shared anecdotes and visions remind us that creativity thrives at the intersection of passion and community. Whether it's transforming a gym into an auction house or dreaming of a drive-thru museum, their ambitions reflect a commitment to preserving culture while fostering connection. As the final laughs echo through tales of pranks and auctioneering lessons, this episode serves as a heartfelt tribute to the vibrant, often unexpected world of folk art—and the people who make it unforgettable.
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    29 mins
  • Episode 21 | Auctioneers Ted Muscarelli and Matt Ledbetter Dive Into the World of Folk Art Collecting and Selling

    Episode 21 | Auctioneers Ted Muscarelli and Matt Ledbetter Dive Into the World of Folk Art Collecting and Selling
    Jan 6 2025
    In this exciting episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter sits down with auctioneer Ted Muscarelli of the Muscarelli Auction Company and a surprise visit from Matt’s dad, Wade Ledbetter, just as Matt and Ted were about to start recording. Matt and Ted share stories of auctions, collecting, and the joy of the hunt for valuable pieces. From pottery to quilts, walking sticks to baskets, Matt and Ted discuss the artistry behind these objects and the business of selling and collecting them.CHAPTERS00:00:00 - 00:03:00 | The Call That Started It AllThe episode begins with Matt sharing the story of how he and Ted Muscarelli first crossed paths. It all started with a surprising phone call from Ted, which led to a conversation about a collection that Matt would eventually help sell at auction. The collection featured iconic pottery from some of the most renowned folk artists. Matt and Ted dive into the excitement of discovering these pieces and talk about the thrill of selling pottery that has the potential to explode in value.00:03:00 - 00:07:00 | The Auction LifeAs the conversation shifts, Matt and Ted delve into the realities of the auction business. With stories of high-value folk art items and the occasional surprise, they discuss the ups and downs of being in the auction world. Wade Ledbetter, Matt’s father, shares his own experiences of being a picker and what it was like to collect and auction off folk art throughout his life. Ted talks about the joy of seeing these valuable objects pass hands, and how crucial it is to maintain relationships with both collectors and sellers to make deals happen smoothly.00:07:00 - 00:10:00 | Old Folk Art and Its WorthMatt and Ted share their favorite items from the collection, including quilts, carvings, and baskets. They highlight the fascinating world of "old folk art," how objects from the past can still hold great value today, and how to identify truly special pieces. Ted reflects on the importance of being a knowledgeable collector and the difference between ordinary items and extraordinary finds. Matt offers a look at a collection of baskets that ended up selling for far more than anyone expected.00:10:00 - 00:14:00 | The Power of CollectingThe conversation moves to the idea of collecting for the love of the objects versus for profit. Matt and Ted talk about how the hunt for folk art isn’t always about making money but about preserving the stories and craftsmanship behind each piece. They touch on the experience of finding an object with rich history and the emotional connection to owning something that speaks to a time and place.00:14:00 - 00:18:00 | The Moment of DiscoveryMatt shares a funny story about a time he found a piece of pottery that had been tossed out and abandoned in the woods, only to later realize it was an Edgefield piece worth thousands. Ted adds to the tale with his own experiences of finding forgotten gems and how these moments of discovery can change the course of a collector’s journey. The idea that folk art is ever-evolving and can show up in unexpected places is a theme they both agree on.00:18:00 - 00:23:00 | The Basket Tree StoryTed shares a memorable moment from a local auction where he picked up a unique basket tree, which quickly became a valuable item. The conversation turns to the joy of finding the perfect items at auction and how the value of these pieces can fluctuate dramatically, depending on who’s bidding and what collectors are looking for. The excitement of watching an item fetch a higher price than expected is a recurring theme in their conversation.00:23:00 - 00:30:00 | Teaching the Next Generation of PickersAs a parent, Matt reflects on the responsibility of teaching his kids the art of picking. He talks about how his children have learned the value of folk art and auctions, and how they’ve even made money selling items they picked. Ted shares his own experiences with his children, teaching them the business and offering them opportunities to explore the world of folk art collecting from a young age. The conversation shifts to the generational knowledge that is passed down through families involved in this business.00:30:00 - 00:35:00 | Wrapping Up the DayMatt and Ted reflect on the day spent packing up the collection, sharing what it was like to see the items go to auction and how bittersweet it can be to part with valuable pieces. They also talk about the importance of knowing when it’s time to let go of a collection, but how the thrill of the hunt will never leave them. Ted concludes with the story of a pottery jug and the emotional connection that makes folk art so unique.00:35:00 - End | Looking Forward to the Future of Folk ArtAs the episode wraps up, Matt and Ted look ahead to the future of folk art collecting and auctions. Matt reflects on the importance of continuing to promote and preserve the stories behind folk art. Ted talks about his plans for future auctions and how the industry continues to...
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    32 mins
  • Episode 20 | Folk Art at the Smithsonian: Elevating Self-Taught Artists to National Recognition

    Episode 20 | Folk Art at the Smithsonian: Elevating Self-Taught Artists to National Recognition
    Dec 23 2024

    In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter and Kyle Sheetz dive into Kyle's recent trip to the Smithsonian American Art Museum, where he explored the museum's folk art collection. They discuss the significance of the works on display and share reflections on the self-taught artists behind them. Matt offers insights on how the Smithsonian elevates folk art and what it means for artists like Sam Doyle, James Hampton, and others to have their work featured in such a prestigious space. The duo also explores the role of folk art in preserving American history and culture.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00:30 - 00:03:00 | First Impressions of the Smithsonian
    Kyle describes the excitement of seeing folk art at the Smithsonian, particularly a glowing piece by James Hampton, a self-taught artist known for The Throne of the Third Heaven of the Nations Millennium General Assembly. Hampton’s work, a monumental testament to his faith, was created while he worked as a janitor in Washington, D.C. Kyle explains the importance of having folk art recognized in national institutions like the Smithsonian.

    00:03:00 - 00:06:00 | The Importance of Folk Art in Museums
    Matt and Kyle discuss why folk art in museums like the Smithsonian is significant. For Matt, it’s about giving self-taught artists the recognition they deserve. Folk art speaks to personal histories and unique perspectives on American life. Displaying it in prominent spaces validates its place in art history and sparks deeper conversations.

    00:06:00 - 00:09:00 | Exploring Sam Doyle and Clarence Woosley
    Matt and Kyle highlight Sam Doyle’s expressive works, noting how Doyle’s paintings capture the powerful storytelling of his Southern roots. Matt also brings attention to Clarence Woosley’s distinctive outsider style. They discuss why some artists, despite their impact, have been historically overlooked.

    00:09:00 - 00:12:00 | The Unlikely Fame of Folk Art
    Matt reflects on why some folk artists, like Sam Doyle, gain recognition while others remain relatively unknown. He explains that fame often comes years after an artist’s work is created, and sometimes it’s about getting the right pieces into the right spaces, like the Smithsonian, for broader visibility.

    00:12:00 - 00:15:00 | The Smithsonian’s Role in Folk Art Preservation
    Matt emphasizes that museums like the Smithsonian play a key role in preserving folk art, connecting the public to its history. He also stresses the importance of smaller regional museums, such as MESDA in North Carolina, in preserving regional traditions and contextualizing folk art within American history.

    00:15:00 - 00:18:00 | Folk Art Outside the Southeast: Broader Perspectives
    Matt and Kyle explore folk art traditions beyond the Southeastern U.S., pointing to other regions like the Southwest. Matt highlights the cultural richness of folk art in places like Arizona, New Mexico, and California. The Smithsonian’s collection shows the diversity of folk art across the country.

    00:18:00 - 00:22:00 | The Thrill of the Folk Art Hunt
    Matt shares the excitement of picking for rare folk art pieces. He talks about the importance of seeing pieces in person and offers tips for navigating auctions. Matt emphasizes that it’s not about the highest-priced item but finding pieces that resonate personally, and how some of the most valuable pieces aren’t always the most famous.

    00:22:00 - 00:27:00 | Museums, Auctions, and Personal Connections
    Matt and Kyle discuss the relationships they’ve built with other collectors, artists, and auction houses. These connections help foster a community around folk art and allow new collectors to learn from seasoned pros. Trust and reputation are key in the folk art market, and Matt explains how these networks contribute to the market’s growth.

    00:27:00 - 00:30:00 | Wrapping Up: The Ever-Evolving Folk Art World
    In the final moments of the episode, Matt and Kyle reflect on how folk art is gaining more recognition. Museums and auctions play a big part in this, and Matt encourages listeners to explore folk art museums, attend auctions, and support the artists keeping these traditions alive.

    This episode of House of Folk Art offers a deep dive into the world of folk art, from the Smithsonian’s collection to the excitement of auctions and picking. Matt and Kyle share personal stories, insights, and practical tips for collectors, emphasizing how important it is to preserve and appreciate folk art as an essential part of American history and culture.
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    30 mins
  • Episode 19 | The Collector’s Guide: Museums, Auctions, and Folk Art Adventures

    Episode 19 | The Collector’s Guide: Museums, Auctions, and Folk Art Adventures
    Dec 9 2024

    In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter and Sully dive deep into the art of starting a folk art collection. They discuss the importance of museums as a foundation for learning, auctions as a gateway to smart investments, and the nuances of appreciating folk pottery, baskets, and more. With personal anecdotes and practical tips, Matt shares his expertise, guiding new collectors on how to navigate auctions, research items, and recognize authentic craftsmanship. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just getting started, this episode offers invaluable insights into the folk art world.


    CHAPTERS

    00:22:39 - 00:23:02 | Inspiration for Collecting
    Matt kicks off the discussion by emphasizing his mission to inspire new collectors. “We want to be the inspiration for people trying to start a collection, for people who want to get into this but don’t know how.”

    00:23:02 - 00:24:13 | Museums: The Starting Point
    Matt recommends starting your collecting journey by visiting museums like the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) in Winston-Salem, NC. He explains, “If it’s worthy enough to be in a museum, it’s worthy enough to be in your home.” MESDA’s exhibits span from the 1680s to the mid-19th century, showcasing everything from pottery to furniture. Matt highlights their "white glove tour," allowing visitors to examine items up close.

    00:24:13 - 00:25:48 | Learning the Stories Behind the Pieces
    Sully asks what to look for during museum visits. Matt advises taking multiple trips to absorb the history and nuances, explaining, “The first time you go, you’re not going to learn much; you’re just opening your eyes to what’s there.” He shares the fascinating story of an anonymous artist, nicknamed “The Guilford Limner,” whose work tells the story of early North Carolina settlers.

    00:25:48 - 00:30:15 | First Steps as a Collector
    Sully, armed with $500 from his shifts at Sonic, asks Matt how to start his collection. Matt suggests, “Buy what you like. If you don’t like baskets, you just don’t know enough about them yet.” He also stresses the value of auctions, where competitive bidding often ensures fair pricing.

    00:30:15 - 00:34:46 | Research and Recognizing Value
    Matt highlights the importance of research, advising collectors to use tools like eBay and Live Auctioneers to assess value. “Knowledge is power,” he states, sharing the example of Randy Tobias face jugs and how to determine their worth. He encourages new collectors to invest in books and resources to deepen their understanding of folk art.

    00:34:46 - 00:38:22 | The Allure of Baskets and Anonymous Art
    Matt delves into the rich world of baskets, explaining how anonymous pieces can still hold immense value. “If it’s good enough to be in a book, it’s probably good enough to own,” he says, pointing out the unique tie-off design of Mary Cosby baskets, which can fetch thousands at auction.

    00:38:22 - 00:43:10 | Picking Adventures and Pottery Stories
    Matt recounts a legendary pick by his father, Wade Ledbetter, who once bought a 15-gallon pottery jar for $500 that later sold for $30,000. This story underscores the value of intuition and knowledge in identifying significant pieces during picking trips.

    00:43:10 - 00:45:57 | The Challenge of Picking
    Sully proposes a picking challenge, and Matt playfully boasts about his expertise: “I’m the most devastating picker in the Southeast. If I buy for $10 and sell for $10,000, I’m giving no money back.” The banter highlights the competitive spirit of picking and the thrill of the hunt.

    00:45:57 - 00:48:00 | Wrapping Up: Knowledge is Key
    Matt reflects on the role of knowledge in collecting and picking, emphasizing that experience and research are the true keys to success. As the conversation wraps, the duo jokes about future picking competitions and their evolving roles as collectors.

    This episode of House of Folk Art provides a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in starting a folk art collection. From museums to marketplaces, Matt and Sully share practical tips and captivating stories that celebrate the art and history of American craftsmanship.
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    26 mins
  • Episode 18 | Navigating Auctions and Building a Collection

    Episode 18 | Navigating Auctions and Building a Collection
    Nov 25 2024

    In this episode of House of Folk Art, Sully steps out from behind the camera to join Matt Ledbetter in a candid discussion about folk art auctions and starting a collection. With humor and insight, Matt shares his auction expertise, emphasizing the importance of understanding value, history, and how to navigate bidding wars. He also dives into why every pottery collector should add baskets to their collection, highlighting their historical significance and timeless beauty.

    CHAPTERS
    00:00 - 00:02:00 | Sully Joins to Talk Auctions
    Sully takes a seat with Matt to ask the big questions about auctions: How do they work, and where should a young collector start? Matt reflects on his own journey into folk art and introduces the key concepts of value and competition in the auction world.

    00:02:00 - 00:06:00 | Bidding at Auctions: The Risks and Rewards
    Matt walks Sully through the ups and downs of auction bidding, explaining how online buyers from across the country can drive up prices. He shares tips for navigating these situations, from understanding starting prices to knowing when you might be overpaying. “You’re not just bidding in this room—you’re bidding against the world.”

    00:06:00 - 00:10:00 | Why Pottery Collectors Should Collect Baskets
    Matt emphasizes the deep connection between pottery and baskets, explaining how America’s history was built on these functional yet artistic pieces. He details the significance of patina—the wear and grime that add value and tell a story—and why baskets are an essential addition to any collection.

    00:10:00 - 00:14:00 | Patina, Walking Sticks, and the Beauty of Age
    Matt demonstrates how the dirt and grime on folk art pieces, from baskets to walking sticks, represent their history. He cautions against cleaning or painting pieces, as it erases their authenticity and value. “That grime is 100 years of history—don’t wash it off!”

    00:14:00 - 00:17:00 | Finding Folk Art at Auctions and Estate Sales
    Matt explains how estate sales offer unique opportunities to find folk art treasures without competing against online buyers. He shares stories of memorable finds and the thrill of discovering pieces with rich histories.

    00:17:00 - 00:22:00 | Decorating with Folk Art and Closing Reflections
    Sully and Matt discuss how to incorporate folk art into home decor, from pottery on jug shelves to baskets and walking sticks that complement each piece. Matt closes by reflecting on the joy of collecting and preserving folk art, urging collectors to invest in pieces with stories rather than mass-produced items.

    #HouseOfFolkArt #FolkArtStories #HOFA #CollectingFolkArt #PatinaMatters
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    18 mins
  • Episode 17 | The Art of the Pick: Folk Pottery, Face Jugs, and Auction Tales

    Episode 17 | The Art of the Pick: Folk Pottery, Face Jugs, and Auction Tales
    Nov 11 2024
    In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter reconnects with antiques expert David Kane from Greensboro, North Carolina, to delve into the captivating world of folk pottery, folk art, and hidden treasures. Together, they explore legendary potters like Billy Ray Hussey and M.L. Owens, discussing the fine line between art and investment, and the excitement of discovering pieces that carry history and authenticity. Through stories of pottery picks, auction dynamics, and near-mythical artisans, Matt and David reflect on the lasting value of folk art and the joy that comes with preserving these pieces.CHAPTERS00:00 - 00:04:10 | Intro & Early Memories of PickingMatt opens by sharing a nostalgic look at his early picking days: “We’d take a truck from North Carolina up to New York City, knocking on doors…we came back with a truckload of antiques every single time.” This journey captures the essence of folk art's origins, as pieces moved from private collections to appreciative hands.00:04:10 - 00:08:30 | Antiques Runs and Auction TalesDavid shares stories from the auction world, where memorable finds often defy initial impressions. “My dad threw a tree in the truck, and I thought he’d lost it—until it fetched $600 at auction.” These anecdotes reveal the unpredictable nature of auctions and the unique value behind each piece.00:08:30 - 00:12:45 | Folk Art’s Rising ValueDiscussing the changing landscape of folk art, David emphasizes the hidden value of certain pieces: “It’s that hidden story behind it that makes it valuable—what it means to the people who created it and the collectors who find it.”00:12:45 - 00:16:00 | Dave Drake Pottery AdventuresMatt shares a humorous early encounter with a Dave Drake pottery jar, a prized item he nearly missed. “I was only 15, didn’t know what I had…but when I said I’d left a jar signed ‘Dave’ behind, my dad slammed on the brakes and turned us around!” They reflect on Drake’s legacy and the impact of discovering a significant piece.00:16:00 - 00:20:00 | The Legacy of Billy Ray HusseyFor Matt, Billy Ray Hussey holds a special place in the folk art world. “Billy Ray is the godfather of folk pottery,” Matt states, explaining how Hussey’s mentorship and craft shaped the landscape of folk art. David chimes in, recounting how Hussey's technique and speed set him apart, making him a pioneer.00:20:00 - 00:24:30 | M.L. Owens and Face JugsThe duo discusses M.L. Owens’s role in the folk art scene, often overlooked despite his contributions. “M.L. Owens was one of the only potters who could formulate that red glaze; it was practically a family secret,” Matt explains, noting Owens’s influence on his nephew, Billy Ray Hussey.00:24:30 - 00:29:10 | Investing in Folk PotteryMatt and David reflect on the value of collecting today, with Matt emphasizing, “I think investing in pieces from artists like Billy Ray is better than crypto…In 20 years, these face jugs will be treasures.” They highlight how folk art represents both cultural history and long-term value.00:29:10 - 00:32:45 | Collector Finds & Broken Pottery StoriesThey swap tales of unfortunate accidents with pottery, including the heartbreak of breaking valuable pieces. Matt recounts, “One night, I heard a crash, and three of my best monkey jugs were shattered…I still have the pieces.” Despite the mishaps, both agree that the art remains worth the risk.00:32:45 - End | Reflections on Art and Preserving HistoryThe episode closes with a reflection on the importance of preserving folk art for future generations. “Whoever dies with the most [art] wins,” David jokes, underscoring the shared passion and lifelong pursuit of folk art collecting.
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    31 mins