A recent auction saw a painting of two black cats by Nova Scotian artist Everett Lewis fetch approximately $18,000, garnering significant interest. Although renowned as the husband of Maud Lewis, Everett’s own artworks are gaining traction in the market, with some pieces selling for thousands of dollars. At a recent auction in Saint John, an Everett Lewis painting expected to fetch around $4,500 ended up being sold for $18,400, indicating a growing appreciation for Nova Scotian folk art.
According to Ethan Miller, CEO of Miller & Miller, a notable auction house in New Hamburg, Ont., Everett Lewis, though controversial, is gaining recognition among folk art collectors for the charm and sincerity evident in his work. This surge in interest extends to other Nova Scotian folk artists, as seen with Joe Norris, a former fisherman turned painter, whose painting “Summer Cove, Flowers in Bloom” fetched $23,600 at auction.
The escalating value of Nova Scotia folk art, including the works of Maud and Everett Lewis, can be attributed to various factors. Miller highlights a pivotal moment in 2022 when a Maud Lewis painting sold for $350,000, sparking broader attention toward folk art. This trend, coupled with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to a renewed appreciation for the authenticity and optimism conveyed through these artworks.
Sarah Jones, co-owner of Jones Auction House, notes that the stability of art as an investment during financial uncertainties and the spillover effect from the popularity of artists like Maud Lewis contribute to the rising interest in folk art. Recent auctions have seen pieces by Atlantic Canadian artists surpassing their estimated values, such as a watercolor by David McKay and a pastel by Mary Pratt selling for significantly higher prices than anticipated.
The growing recognition of lesser-known artists in the Atlantic Canada region, alongside the established names like Alex Colville and the Pratts, reflects a broader acknowledgment of the diverse and talented artistic community in the area. This shift in perspective is driving increased attention to artists from Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, creating a more vibrant and valued art market in the region.
