Folk Art Masterworks Collection
The Folk Art Masterworks exhibited in this gallery represent works considered by the artist to be major works either dealing with important issues or large works with much detail as opposed to the more simple subjects in our Gullah Gallery. Most of these works have won awards and are collectively one of the collections that Saint is most proud of. Enjoy and learn.
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In 'Family Reunion' Saint recalls the events of his family reunion in South Carolina. This event was one of the first factors that lead to the artist moving to South Carolina from Washington,DC. People have seen all kinds of personal messages from this painting. Way beyond the artist's original motivation.
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This painting is an award winner that depicts the drama involved with a group of so called slaves who risk it all to educate themselves. The scene reveals a sophisticated communication strategy to protect them and there important activity. So much for the concept of the 'happy slave'.
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In "The Legend of Dr.Buzzard" the life and legend of Stephaney Robinson (aka Dr.Buzzard) is recalled in this narrative portrait. Dr.Buzzard was a practitioner of folk medicine whose traditions were brought to the Sea Islands from Africa. This is a mixed media piece combining scratch board and acyrlic paint. The original is part of a private collection in Sheldon,SC.
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'Sittin On The Dock of The Bay' showcases the importance of the Sea and the beauty of a Low Country sunset. Here the artist once again blends several styles together. Much of the painting is impressionistic combined with a folk and realistic style. The sky could also qualify it as a Lightscape. This original is part of a private collection in Washington,DC.
'The Night Shift' is painted in a similar style as 'Sittin On the Dock of the Bay'. Here we see the night shift workers coming to work via the water probably from a sea island. This painting won Best of Show at the 2005 Gullah Festival in Beaufort,SC.
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In this latest edition to the collection Saint turns an old achival photo of a creek baptism into the masterwork, 'Gullah Baptism'. The artist paid particular attention to instilling the Holy Spirit into the water.
We hope these images have given you a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the Low Country.
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Return to Black Folk Art page from the Folk Art Masterworks Collection

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