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.
