House of Folk Art

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.

CHAPTERS

00:00 - 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.

In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter welcomes longtime friend and antiques expert David Kane from Greensboro, North Carolina. Together, they explore the world of folk art, picking, and the unique thrill of discovering hidden treasures. Through stories of auction days, rare finds, and surprising art appraisals, Matt and David share insights into the art market's ups and downs. From learning the ropes with folk art to the evolving trends in antique collecting, this episode captures the excitement, knowledge, and dedication that drive true collectors and pickers alike.
00:00 - 00:04:10 | Intro & Early Lessons in Folk Art

00:04:10 - 00:08:30 | Auction Adventures and Rare Finds

00:08:30 - 00:12:45 | Changing Trends in Collecting

00:12:45 - 00:14:30 | Folk Art and Learning Value

00:14:30 - 00:17:45 | The Rise of Self-Taught Art

00:17:45 - 00:21:00 | The Mysteries of Art Appraisal

00:21:00 - 00:23:45 | Chasing Hidden Treasures

00:23:45 - 00:27:20 | The Art of Picking vs. Retail

00:27:20 - 00:30:00 | The Story of the Basquiat and Monet

00:30:00 - End | Reflections on the Journey and Finding Hidden Art

Join Matt Ledbetter and Mike Smith for a captivating episode of the House of Folk Art podcast. In this episode, we explore the life and work of SL Jones, a remarkable folk artist whose carvings and drawings have left an indelible mark on the folk art community. From his early detailed carvings to his later drawings, we delve into his unique style and the stories behind his work.

Chapters:

00:00:00 - 00:00:12: Introduction to SL Jones
00:00:12 - 00:00:35: Early Works and Transition
00:00:35 - 00:01:21: Distinctive Style and Personal History
00:01:21 - 00:02:08: Comparing Artists and Techniques
00:02:08 - 00:03:27: Auction Highlights and Value of Folk Art
00:03:27 - 00:04:32: Documenting and Preserving Collections
00:04:32 - 00:06:17: Heartfelt Stories and Personal Connections
00:06:17 - 00:07:59: Collecting for Love and Investment
00:07:59 - 00:23:31: The Importance of Provenance and Storytelling

We hope you enjoy this episode and gain a deeper appreciation for SL Jones and the world of folk art. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share!

In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter sits down with his longtime friend and fellow auctioneer, Ethan, to reminisce about their journey in the auction world. From their first meeting at Mendenhall Auction School to selling historical documents for millions, the two share stories of triumph, lessons learned, and the unique challenges of the auction business. Tune in to hear about the moments that defined their careers, the value of ephemera, and why bid calling is just one part of the auctioneer’s art. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with humor, insight, and a deep love for the world of auctions.

00:00 - 00:21 | Meeting Ethan at Auction School
00:22 - 00:46 | Winning at Auction School
00:47 - 01:15 | The Pressure of Bid Calling
01:16 - 03:01 | Early Days and Auctioneering Skills
03:02 - 04:44 | Specializing in Historical Documents
04:45 - 09:54 | The Thrill of a Big Find
09:55 - 13:10 | Million-Dollar Auction Success
13:11 - 16:09 | Reflections and Career Shifts

Join Matt Ledbetter and Mike Smith for an in-depth conversation with Larry Ballard, an 86-year-old master carver from Chicago, whose incredible journey has taken his folk art all the way to the Vatican. In this episode, we explore Larry’s remarkable career, from his early days carving in grammar school to his detailed wooden sculptures and unique robot creations made from recycled computer parts.

Chapters:

00:00:00 - 00:00:20: Introduction to Larry Ballard
00:00:21 - 00:01:15: Dating and Detailing the Art
00:01:48 - 00:02:32: Larry’s Early Days and Inspirations
00:02:32 - 00:03:28: Robots and Recycling in Art
00:03:28 - 00:04:06: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Art
00:04:06 - 00:05:28: Unique Materials and Techniques
00:05:28 - 00:07:17: Family and International Reach
00:07:17 - 00:09:38: Notable Works and Collaborations, including the Vatican Piece
00:09:38 - 00:10:06: Larry’s Legacy and the Future of His Art
00:10:06 - 00:11:09: Connecting with Other Artists
00:11:09 - 00:12:02: The Auction and Beyond
We hope you enjoy this episode and gain a deeper appreciation for Larry Ballard’s work and legacy. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!