‘FOLK ART ON FIRE’ AT FENIMORE

AVV 1-29 #686301

COOPERSTOWN, N.Y. — Fenimore Art Museum will present “Folk Art on Fire,” on view April 1– December 31, in the Clark Gallery.

 In the pre-photographic era, many painted images documented and commented upon fires and firemen of the time. Many have become familiar icons and images that remind us of both the horror of fire and the heroism of its combatants.

These images are symbols of another era, rendered with varying proportions of artistic naturalism and license by both accomplished and untutored hands. They enriched everyday utilitarian objects, such as hats, buckets, oilcloth capes, trade signs and engines and fire pumpers, and they possess an element of whimsy and individuality that relieves the seriousness of their common theme.

 The Fenimore Art Museum is at 5798 State Highway 80, Lake Road. For information, www.fenimoreartmuseum.org or 1-888-547-1450.