Episode 17 | The Art of the Pick: Folk Pottery, Face Jugs, and Auction Tales

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.