What is “primitive” anyway?
Why does everything look dirty and old? What is “primitive” anyway? If you are asking yourself these types of questions, let me try to explain a bit.
I like to think of “primitive” as an expression of history; generally post industrial revolution. During this time, people didn’t have money to just go out and buy what they wanted or needed; or even the materials to make it. Instead, they had to make do with what they had. For instance; using old/ripped clothes to make quilts, or using a glass as a base for a pincushion. Now, we look back at what they had made during the depression; and think of it as works of art; for they are part of our American history. Most pieces look like something a mother had made for her child at a time when the family couldn’t afford to buy a doll or toy. People who made these items weren’t necessarily skillful at what they did; they were more “works of love” than masterful works of art. Looking at an item made from this era; you can tell how much care and love was put into every stitch. Each button, each piece of lace or fabric was carefully chosen to complete their design. This is what we now call primitive and vintage reproduction décor.
Though the original artists may have lacked skill, it takes great skill to replicate their items. What we as modern artists are trying to recreate, is something that was essentially “made from nothing.” So instead of going out to the store and picking out what products we need to accomplish this; we also have to use what we have at hand, or use what we think they might have had; which is far more challenging. What is someone’s junk is seen as treasures to the new wave of primitive artists. Another hindrance is that primitive art has an old or antique look; or vintage appearance. In turn, modern artists have to begin with new materials, and develop techniques to recreate that antique patina we have come to love.. Each artist has their own recipe for what they may call “the grunging process.” Some recipes will turn a fabric yellow; some make dark splotches... the goal being to make it look worn and old.
We have come to love primitive and vintage reproduction décor, perhaps because it brings a sense of warmth to a home. An old worn doll, a hand carved wooden bowl filled with old cloth pears and quilts hung on the wall bring back memories of a time gone by. We find homes all across America that depict this look. Old Sturbridge village is a perfect pallet of years gone by. The simple life of an era gone by but not forgotten!
Doreen Piechota
Biography: My name is Doreen Piechota I live in West Brookfield, MA. I have lived here for 14 years. I moved here to enjoy the simplicity of country life. I have 3 wonderful children and a beautiful granddaughter. I do adult foster care for a 60-year-old gentleman who we just adore. I remarried the most wonderful and supportive man a TTSG in the USAF I volunteer on the West Brookfield Rescue Squad and own The Primitive Cellar Gift Shop.
I am very excited to be writing for TheTownMagazine.com. I enjoy primitive reproduction décor and will be bringing you more exciting articles on the history of primitive reproduction art.
