“Animal Spirits: Visionary Folk Art” showing at the Alexander Dickson House February 3, 2017 through April 6, 2017
Hillsborough, N.C. – The Alliance for Historic Hillsborough and Mike’s Art Truck are now presenting “Animal Spirits: Visionary Folk Art” at the Alexander Dickson House in Hillsborough, NC. This new exhibit featuring work by twelve self-taught artists, explores the relationship between the artist and the non-human world. The show is on display from February 3, 2017, through April 6, 2017, in the historic building which houses the Hillsborough Visitors Center.
Self-taught artists have been recreating the images of animals since ancient times, illustrating the vital connection between human life and the non-human world. The fascination can be much deeper than admiration or curiosity, as people also see animals as spiritual beings. Even today’s self-taught artists, like the twelve on exhibit, express the same sense of connection to creatures both real and imaginary. But the folk art on display does not require deep serious thought to be enjoyed. The artists’ whimsical creations and unusual materials make it easy and fun to learn about their stories.
Visionary artist Brian Dowdall channels the spirits of animals as he spreads dark sand onto paper bags. James Dean, creator of “Pete the Cat,” has seen his own life dramatically transformed by the personality of a little stray feline. Artist Floria Yancey tells us about a supernatural creature called a Cubbee. Former rocket scientist Kurt Zimmermann feels compelled to memorialize animals that have become roadkill. Ruby C. Williams remembers the sounds of wild cats in the night. Buddy Snipe imagines mermaids with big appetites. From bailey jack’s pigs to R.A. Miller’s dinosaur, from ravens to frogs, from “Helligator” to saw-back grasshopper lizard, the art is designed to bring a smile.
Exhibition artwork is available for purchase directly through Mike’s Art Truck and can be picked up after the conclusion of the show. Contact Mike’s Art Truck for information by email at mikesarttruck@centurylink.net, or visit their website at www.mikesarttruck.com.
The Alexander Dickson House and Hillsborough Visitors Center is located at 150 E. King St., in downtown Hillsborough. Admission to the exhibit is free and open to the public during regular visitor hours. Free parking is available. For more information about Historic Hillsborough, including the Visitors Center, please visit https://www.visithillsboroughnc.com.
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Photos by Karen Mack
