For Immediate Release:
Macy's Debuts the Gitter Gallery American Folk Art Collection
New collection features the work of nine self-taught artists
NEW YORK (April 26, 2009) — Macy's today announced a new collection of Gitter Gallery American Folk artwork available at select Macy's Furniture galleries. The Gitter Gallery and its artists seek to inspire and educate the public about great American Folk art through the creation of fine art reproductions that are accessible and affordable. Macy's will carry reproductions of 23 of the American Folk Art paintings that skillfully illustrate historical events, iconic figures, landmarks and scenes from everyday rural life.
"Macy's is delighted to add Gitter Gallery to our home art collection. We have great admiration and respect for these artists, who embody the true American spirit," said Jeff Kantor, President of Furniture Division for Macy's Home Store. "This collection represents our commitment to bring a more localized assortment to our customers and we anticipate that this partnership will continue to increase our customers' appreciation for American Folk Art".
The Gitter Gallery artists include: Toby Hollinghead, Bernice Sims, Clementine Hunter, Howard Finster, Rev. Benjamin F. Perkins, Phil Levi "Chief" Willey, Jimmy Lee Sudduth, Malcah Zeldis and John William "Uncle Jack" Dey. Art connoisseur and Gitter Gallery founder, Doug Gitter, was astounded by their abilities to capture the heart and soul of America and to illustrate these images through unconventional mediums like sheet metal, scrap lumber, ply wood and tin. Notably, artist Jimmy Lee Sudduth, was renowned for the effects he could produce with his own handmade paint which consisted of a variety of common substances including mud, sugar, honey, coffee grounds, plants, sand and soot.
The Gitter artists come from various walks of life, having previously worked as lumbermen, carpenters, ministers, and nurses. Many did not discover their passion for art until much later in life and were surprised to find solace in painting. "Sometimes words will not fully describe an emotion, event or passion but the blending of color and form will put together the symphony of a life crying out to be heard", said artist Toby Hollinghead. Their inspiration is drawn from life experiences, religion, historical events and their paintings are a true reflection of life in the heart of America.
Many of the Gitter artists are now recognized in the Smithsonian Institution and the National Museum of American Folk Art in New York. The Gitter Gallery is able to make its collection of artwork available to a broader audience by using an advanced reproduction technique called "giclee". This sophisticated method results in a print of astonishing quality and is quickly becoming the new standard in the art industry.
The Gitter Gallery Collection is available at select Macy's East and Macy's Central Home Furniture Gallery locations, which include Herald Square, Paramus, Cherry Hill, State Street, Old Orchard, Minneapolis and Southdale. A complete list can be found on macys.com. Starting retail price: $250.
About Macy's
Macy's, the largest retail brand of Macy's, Inc., delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at more than 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam. Offering distinctive assortments including exclusive fashion and home brands, Macy's stores are operated by four regionally based retail divisions - Macy's East, Macy's Florida, Macy's Central and Macy's West - and an online store at macys.com.
