LITERATURE + LECTURES

The Houston Seminar presents Why Folk Art Matters. Three Mondays, October 3, 10 and 17, 6:30 P.M.

Folk art has moved from rural villages around the world into coveted private and museum collections. A distinguished folk art collector will introduce us to this amazing world of untrained artisans; two major collectors of folk art will share and discuss their renowned collections with us.

October 3
Private collection of Ann and James Harithas
Address will be provided to subscribers.

For years, Ann and James Harithas have collected original, one-of-a-kind folk art with a special interest in depicting the influence of American folk art on contemporary art. Both Ann and James have deep roots in the art world. James will lead us on a tour of their collection in their home.

October 10
Charlene Cerny: Why Folk Art Matters Now
St. Luke's United Methodist Church, The Rotunda,
3471 Westheimer Road.

Charlene Cerny is a founder and executive director of the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market, the largest event of its kind in the world. For 16 years, Ms. Cerny served as director of the Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

While folk art remains an authentic means of expression in many world cultures, its very existence is now at risk. Using examples of master artisans at work today, Ms. Cerny will discuss how travelers and buyers in the global marketplace can not only bring beauty into their lives, but can preserve cultures and help to craft a better world for all.

October 17
Home of Stephanie Smither
Address will be provided to subscribers

Renowned collector of folk art, Stephanie Smither, invites us to her River Oaks home to tour her extensive collection of 20th–century self-taught artists. Mrs. Smither and her late husband, John, began collecting American folk art in the mid-80s, and later expanded into collecting internationally. The collection has been shown in many museums, including the Museum of Fine Art, Houston. Mrs. Smither serves on the board of The Orange Show, and is currently involved in the creation of Smither Park, dedicated to her husband's memory.