Step inside the Catawba Valley Pottery Festival with Matt Ledbetter and the House of Folk Art crew as they capture the energy, artistry, and tradition that define one of the South’s most important folk pottery events. Recorded live from Hickory, North Carolina, this episode features interviews with master potters Steve Abee, Stacy Lambert, and Michael Gates, as well as collectors and historians La Ryan and Dr. Allen Huffman.

Hear firsthand stories about digging clay by hand, firing in wood-burning kilns, the legacy of the Reinhardt family, how folk pottery has influenced modern collecting, and why handmade art continues to thrive in today's world. Whether you're passionate about face jugs, Catawba Valley alkaline glazes, or Southern folk traditions, this episode is a rare look behind the scenes of the people keeping these practices alive.

Perfect for fans of folk art, Southern culture, pottery collecting, traditional craft, and American heritage.

🎙 Topics covered:
• Catawba Valley Pottery history
• Southern folk art traditions
• Face jugs and alkaline glazes
• Collecting and preserving pottery
• Stories of Howard Smith and Berlin Craig
• Passing folk traditions to new generations

🎧 Listen now and experience the magic of handmade art, community, and storytelling at the Catawba Valley Pottery Festival.

Cher Shaffer: Visionary Folk Artist & The Day the Mountains Cried

Cher Shaffer is a self-taught folk artist with over 55 years of experience, blending Cherokee and Melungeon heritage into her visionary paintings, pit-fired pottery, and sculptural dolls. In this episode of House of Folk Art, she discusses her creative journey, from overcoming commercial art world pushback to unveiling her latest series, The Day the Mountains Cried—a powerful collection documenting the impact of Hurricane Helene on North Carolina’s mountain communities.

Explore Cher’s intuitive painting process, her experience with visionary art, and why folk art is more than just decoration—it’s a historical record of resilience and storytelling.

Cher Shaffer is a self-taught folk artist whose work spans over five decades, blending Cherokee and Melungeon heritage with Southern folk traditions, visionary painting, and pit-fired pottery. In this episode of House of Folk Art, host Matt Ledbetter dives into Cher’s journey—from shaping clay as a child in rural Georgia to becoming a nationally recognized folk artist.

Discover how a near-death experience in 1985 transformed her artistic style, why she draws inspiration from African American face jugs and Pueblo pottery, and how she follows the urge to create with intuitive, free-flowing expression.

🔹 Learn about Cher’s unique artistic process
🔹 Explore the cultural traditions behind her work
🔹 Find out where to collect her paintings, dolls, and pottery

Read the full profile and listen to the episode now!

Join House of Folk Art host Matt Ledbetter and his wife, Jennie Ledbetter, as they recount their first experience at the Catawba Valley Pottery Festival in Hickory, NC. Learn how they navigated the event, met top folk potters like Stacey Lambert and Marvin Bailey, and discovered the best ways to collect and invest in folk pottery. This year, House of Folk Art will have its own booth, featuring live podcast interviews with potters. Get insider tips on attending the festival, what to look for, and why this event is a must for folk art enthusiasts. Subscribe now and be part of the experience.

For a true picker, the best finds aren’t at flea markets or antique malls—they’re hidden in barns, attics, and forgotten sheds, waiting to be uncovered by someone with the right eye. In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter sits down with his father, Wade Ledbetter, to talk about a lifetime of picking. From knocking on doors in rural towns to uncovering a forgotten folk artist’s legacy, Wade shares the highs, the heartbreaks, and the near-misses of antique hunting.

Whether you’re an experienced collector or just love a good story, this episode is packed with wisdom on finding treasures where no one else is looking.

In this episode of House of Folk Art, host Matt Ledbetter sits down with longtime collector Brian Sieveking to explore the fascinating world of outsider and folk art. With over 40 years of experience, Brian shares how he stumbled upon his first face jug at a flea market, traded a carton of cigarettes for it, and unknowingly started a lifelong passion.

Matt and Brian break down how new collectors can get started, from attending live auctions and folk art festivals to navigating the world of self-taught artists. They discuss the growing value of outsider art, why now is the time to invest, and how museums are just beginning to catch up. Plus, they tackle common myths about the art world, explain how to spot authentic pieces, and share expert tips on where to find the best folk art shows.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or just curious about the world of outsider art, this episode offers invaluable insights, stories, and practical advice to help you build your own collection.

In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter sits down with longtime folk art collector and arts professor Brian Sieveking to dive into the world of outsider art. From historic auctions to legendary road trips with Howard Finster, Brian shares stories of rare finds, missed opportunities, and the thrill of collecting. They explore the rise and fall of Folk Fest, the scarcity of Sam Doyle’s work, and the forgotten legacy of Cedar Creek Charlie. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the world of self-taught art, this episode offers a fascinating look at the people and pieces that shape the folk art market.

Join Matt Ledbetter and Kyle in this lively episode of House of Folk Art as they explore the quirky and colorful world of folk art. From trading pottery for taxidermy and brainstorming a drive-thru folk art museum to hilarious pranks and reflections on 17 years in the industry, this episode is packed with laughter, inspiration, and unique insights. Perfect for folk art enthusiasts, collectors, and creatives alike!

In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter sits down with fellow auctioneer Ted Muscarelli to discuss the fascinating world of folk art collecting. Ted, known for his expertise in the auction world, shares the story behind his own extensive collection, which he has meticulously curated over the years. Together, Matt and Ted dive deep into the thrill of discovering unique pieces and the joy of selling artwork that can explode in value at auction. From iconic pottery to handcrafted baskets, they discuss the artistry behind these objects and the process of curating a collection that not only tells a story but also holds great market value. What starts as a casual conversation between two seasoned auctioneers quickly turns into an insightful exploration of the world of folk art, with plenty of personal stories and expert tips along the way.

In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter and Kyle Sheetz discuss Kyle’s recent trip to the Smithsonian American Art Museum, where he explored the museum’s folk art collection. They dive into the significance of self-taught artists like James Hampton and Sam Doyle, whose works are showcased at such a prestigious institution. The conversation touches on the importance of recognizing folk art as an integral part of American history, with Matt offering insights on how museums help elevate these artists and their contributions. They also explore the role of museums, auctions, and personal connections in the growing appreciation for folk art.

Join Matt Ledbetter in episode 19 of House of Folk Art as he explores the essential steps to start your folk art collection. From the importance of visiting museums like MESDA to learning the ins and outs of auctions, Matt shares practical advice and personal anecdotes to inspire new collectors. Discover how to identify quality pieces, navigate auction dynamics, and uncover the stories behind unique treasures that make folk art so captivating.

Join Matt Ledbetter and Sully in Episode 18 of House of Folk Art as they dive into the world of folk art auctions, the value of patina, and the timeless connection between pottery and baskets. Sully steps from behind the camera to ask Matt how to navigate auctions and start a collection, while Matt shares expert tips on bidding strategies, finding hidden gems, and why baskets are a must-have for any pottery collector. This episode explores the beauty of authentic craftsmanship, the stories behind each piece, and the joy of preserving folk art history.

Join Matt Ledbetter and antiques expert David Kane in Episode 17 of House of Folk Art as they delve into the world of folk pottery, rare face jugs, and the legacy of artisans like Billy Ray Hussey and M.L. Owens. Through auction stories, picking adventures, and discussions on the evolving value of folk art, Matt and David explore the rich history and hidden treasures that make folk art so captivating. This episode sheds light on what it takes to succeed in collecting and preserving authentic American craftsmanship.

In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter welcomes longtime friend and antiques expert David Kane from Greensboro, North Carolina. Together, they explore the world of folk art, picking, and the unique thrill of discovering hidden treasures. Through stories of auction days, rare finds, and surprising art appraisals, Matt and David share insights into the art market's ups and downs. From learning the ropes with folk art to the evolving trends in antique collecting, this episode captures the excitement, knowledge, and dedication that drive true collectors and pickers alike.

In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter visits the workshop of Marvin Bailey, a renowned folk potter from South Carolina. Together, they explore the art of pottery, selecting unique pieces for auction while sharing stories from the world of picking and collecting. From flipping jugs to reflecting on the evolution of the folk art market, this episode dives deep into the craftsmanship and history behind these pieces.

In this episode, Matt Ledbetter explores the life and legacy of Howard Finster, one of the most prolific and influential self-taught artists in American folk art. Known for creating over 47,000 works, Finster’s unique artistic journey—from creating sacred art in his famed Paradise Garden to designing album covers for iconic bands like R.E.M. and Talking Heads—is a testament to his spiritual dedication and creative genius. Matt dives into personal stories, including his own encounter with Finster, offering listeners an intimate look at the man behind the art, his inspirations, and his enduring influence on the folk art world.

In this episode of House of Folk Art, host Matt Ledbetter sits down with his long-time friend and auctioneer, Ethan Raynor, for a captivating conversation filled with laughter, life lessons, and incredible auction stories. Ethan shares the journey of his family's auction business, the unforgettable tale of selling a rare Declaration of Independence copy found at a Goodwill, and his brother’s remarkable escape from the World Trade Center on 9/11. Matt and Ethan also dive into the significance of folk art and Americana, reflecting on how these pieces carry deep historical and emotional value.

From their early morning workouts to the thrilling world of auctions, this episode is packed with unique stories and insights into the auction world, art, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Tune in for a heartfelt, entertaining conversation that explores the full circle of life and the value of storytelling through art and history.

In this episode of House of Folk Art, Matt Ledbetter sits down with his longtime friend and fellow auctioneer, Ethan, to reminisce about their journey in the auction world. From their first meeting at Mendenhall Auction School to selling historical documents for millions, the two share stories of triumph, lessons learned, and the unique challenges of the auction business. Tune in to hear about the moments that defined their careers, the value of ephemera, and why bid calling is just one part of the auctioneer’s art. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with humor, insight, and a deep love for the world of auctions.

In this episode of the House of Folk Art podcast, host Matt Ledbetter explores the unexpected ways personal connections influence artistic expression. Discover how two colorful characters from Matt’s past, Snake and Bull, played a pivotal role in his connection with the folk artist Otto. Through engaging stories and reflections, Matt delves into the deep impact these relationships had on Otto’s art, showcasing the powerful link between everyday encounters and creative inspiration. This episode is a testament to how seemingly ordinary moments can shape extraordinary art.

In this episode of the House of Folk Art podcast, host Matt Ledbetter dives into the life and work of SL Jones, a renowned folk artist known for his wooden carvings. Join us as we explore Jones' transition from railroad worker to master carver, his unique style, and the stories behind his most famous pieces. With detailed discussions about his creative process and the auctioning of his artworks, this episode offers a fascinating look at the legacy of SL Jones and his impact on the folk art community. Don't miss this engaging conversation and the insights it provides into the world of folk art.