Historic American Folk Art by Nancy G. Wilson

Smile all the World’s a Canvas…

Historic American Folk Art by Nancy and Kenny

Wilson of Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

The Wilson’s have been diligent in their art form for over 25 years. Inspired by the ingenuity that came before us. Recycled materials from our past help create many one of a kind originals reminiscent of traditional and whimsical antiques. Old bedposts, old wood pieces, architecture and authentic vintage fabrics are just some of the materials that grace each signed and numbered art piece.

Nancy has a strong artistic background, although self-taught in Folk Art. She loves to study antique art which gives inspiration to her art form. Mixed media is used in most of her limited editions, which includes paper-mache. Dolls, woodcarvings, paintings and sculpture are the result of hours of application.

Kenny is the catalyst behind the need to recycle. Taking a unique look at animal form and Americana as a place in time inspires each unique creation. A chainsaw starts many of his original carvings that include decoys and character art. Kenny selects a piece of old wood and then brings the raw form to folk art. Nancy paints his pieces and together a style emerges that has earned a reputation to many a collector. Each folk art piece has a handwritten tag by the artist.

Nancy and Kenny are juried into some of the best quality art shows in the country. Their primitive yet artistic style has won them many credits. Featured in, “Country Traditional” and “Country Woman” magazines, as well as interviews and features in many newspaper articles. Nancy was also interviewed as a guest on a Northern Kentucky Cable TV channel to promote a well known Folk Art show in Cincinnati. Their work has also graced advertising media for the shows in which they participate.

Nancy and Kenny welcome custom work. They have given much dedication to creating special art for special people. Many who have collected their work from early beginnings. One such project, a Lifesized Nativity. Whimsical animals were carved from old cherry tree wood in a primitive style then milk painted. Figures were created in artist canvas and vintage fabrics. This inspirational Folk Art is displayed every Christmas season on a farm south of Detroit, Michigan. You can see this by clicking here.

Kenny believes you should never throw anything away. Nancy believes you should put it to good use. Imagination is the life of it. Authentic Folk Art is the reward.