Pennsylvania Dutch Folk Art Design
Lancaster County may be known for the simple lives of its inhabitants yet the area is rich in culture and design. Indeed, the intricate patterns of a Scherenschnitte and the highly decorated Pennsylvania Dutch pottery are items many Lancaster visitors are eager to see. So, before you go, here are a few Pennsylvania Dutch folk art designs to look out for and where to find them.
Pennsylvania Dutch Redware Pottery
Redware pottery was common among the colonies in the 18th century and is still created by Lancaster’s inhabitants today. As the name implies, the pottery is created from red clay. Pennsylvania Dutch folk art uses local Lancaster County clay for two types of redware pottery. The first is basic functional pottery meant for daily use in the kitchen – this includes jugs, plates, bowls and the like. The second type shows off local folk art designs and is meant for decorative purposes. Local artists will create decorative slipware by glazing the pottery and etching designs into the glaze. Designs can include birds, flowers, abstract waves, words, or drawings to commemorate a special occasion.
The Lacy Folk Art Design of Scherenschnitte
Scherenschnitte means “scissor cutting” in German and involves cutting paper into intricate lacy patterns. The patterns are often used to decorate birth or marriage certificates but many artists create this paper folk art simply for its beauty. Simply by cutting paper, the Pennsylvania Dutch can create intricate scenes and landscapes.
Hexes on Pennsylvania Dutch Barns
A visitor traveling around Lancaster County may see brightly colored signs decorating Lancaster County’s barns and homes. These designs are called hex signs and often portray birds called distelfinks, stars, circles, and rosettes. Although the history behind the hex signs is murky, today many believe that hex signs can bring good luck. Particular shapes and colors also have their own meaning. Hearts are for love, tulips for faith, and birds will bring happiness.
Where to See Pennsylvania Dutch Folk Art
Folk art design can be seen all around Lancaster County. However, museums are a great way to see a variety of folk art all at once. A couple great museums in Lancaster include:
The Landis Valley Museum consists of 18 buildings with an extensive display of Pennsylvania Dutch folk art. You can even see local artists creating their work. It is located at 2451 Kissel Hill Road, Lancaster, PA.
The Heritage Center of Lancaster County displays a variety of folk art from the 18th and 19th century. It is located at 13 W. King St., Lancaster, PA.
Where to Buy Pennsylvania Dutch Folk Art
Many visitors will eventually find themselves in a folk art store buying souvenirs. These stores are not hard to find and you will likely stumble on many, but here are a few to get you started:
The Clay Distelfink offers custom made plates featuring local folk art designs. It can be found at 2246 Old Philadelphia Pike (Route 340), Lancaster, PA.
Village Pottery features local potters and their beautiful redware. It can be found at 3518 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA.
The Old Country Store offers local folk art from over 350 local artists. It can be found at 510 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA.
It is certainly worth exploring Lancaster County’s rich culture. You may even want to take a Pennsylvania Dutch folk art design home with you!
