August 17 – October 26

Folk artist Essie Treat Ward was born in 1902 in Searcy County, where she resided until her death in 1981. Often called the “Grandma Moses of the Ozarks,” Essie was featured at the Smithsonian’s Festival of American Folklife in Washington, D.C. in 1970. Her pieces chronicle the often humorous everyday life in the Ozarks of fictional characters Miranda and Hezzakiah. Essie began drawing when she was a young girl and made art throughout her life without the benefit of formal training.

Paintings from the Shiloh Museum of Ozark History’s Jeanne Hoffer-Tucker Collection.

Featured image: Hezzakiah and Miranda Makin’ Sorghum (1972)

The Gallery is open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 10:00am – 2:00pm.
Appointments for private tours are welcome and group tours are encouraged.

Learn more about Essie at one or both of these upcoming community programs:

Thursday, August 29 – 6 PM
“I just paint as I see it”: Essie Ward and the Hillbilly Stereotype
Using Essie Ward’s folk art to consider the Ozark hillbilly stereotype, Susan Young will explore perceptions of the Ozarks and Ozarkers, how others perceive us, and where the perceptions meet in the middle. Reserve your space.

Tuesday, October 1 – 6 PM
Essie Ward: Illustrating a Life
Using family photos, media clippings, and photos of Essie Ward’s paintings, Rachel Whitaker will explore Essie Ward’s life and her art. Reserve your space.

These public programs are offered free of charge, but reservations are required due to limited seating. 

Thank you to our generous sponsors!

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