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Study Visit: British Folk Art - The Open College of the Arts

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Study Visit: British Folk Art thumb

Study Visit: British Folk Art

folkart2
On Friday 8 August Sarah west will lead a study visit to Tate Britain’s exhibition of British Folk Art. The show surveys the extraordinary and surprising works of some of Britain’s unsung artists. The are many forms and disciplines displayed under this wide umbrella term including textiles, sculpture, functional art, paintings, metalwork, tapestries and many more.
We will look at these works, think, reflect and discuss around this broad subject area of Folk Art. We will consider the purpose of the works, how they relate to art history, hierarchy within art and the social value these works hold. There will also be an opportunity to talk about similar concerns in your own works, if applicable.
The Blue Ship ?c.1934 by Alfred Wallis 1855-1942
Folk art has often been neglected in the story of British art: by uncovering this treasure trove of folk art objects, this exhibition asks why. Steeped in tradition and often created by self-taught artists and artisans, the often humble but always remarkable objects in this exhibition include everything from ships’ figureheads to quirky shop signs, Toby jugs to elaborately crafted quilts. The show exemplifies the energy, variety and idiosyncrasy of British Folk Art. During the visit we will also have the opportunity to visit the permanent rooms.
crimeanquilt
Places are free to OCA students, to book yours please email enquiries@oca-uk.com (Do let us know if you have gallery membership or a relevant art pass)
 
Image Credits; British Folk Art Press shot 2 Ana Escobar
Alfred Wallis, Blue Ship
Unknown Crimean Quilt
All Tate Britain
 


Posted by author: Sarah

One thought on “Study Visit: British Folk Art

  • The Culture Show did a great review of this exhibition (17/6) with Jeremy Deller and Alan Kane talking in a very clear and enthusiastic way about the work which ranged from giant padlocks and shoes (shop signs) to the Blackpool illuminations. I don’t think its still available on iplayer, but if so watch it – it reminds you that you can enjoy making fabulous objects and images just for fun as well as for any specific function or ‘serious’ purpose

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