This 200-Year-Old Decor Trend Is Making a Surprising 2024 Comeback (It’s So Classic!)
There’s no shortage of personality when it comes to this year’s home decor trends, whether it’s the ultra-kitschy styles you’ve seen all over TikTok or the modern eclectic vibes that ooze quiet luxury. But perhaps one of the most random (and unique) trends to come out of 2024 is the resurgence of American Folk portraiture — yes, that means hanging antique portraits of other people in your home.
What Is American Folk Portraiture?
American Folk portraiture involves more unique, whimsical painting styles that emphasize individuality and personality. “Unlike formal portraiture, which might focus on status or idealized representations, folk portraits can capture personal characteristics and idiosyncrasies, creating a more intimate connection between the viewer and the subject,” says Alex Bass, an interior designer, art curator, and founder of Salon 21.
This art style was popular in the United States in the 19th century, and, although there’s still a lot to look at, it errs on the simple side with clean backgrounds and minimal detail. “The portraits are quirky and sort of amateurish, which adds to their charm,” says Bethany Struble, a lead designer at Totum Home.
Behind the American Folk Portraiture Trend
American Folk portraiture — and folk art in general — might have made its mark over 200 years ago, but it continues to captivate our attention in 2024 and is considered one of this year’s emerging trends. According to Struble, the resurgence likely stems from the current eclectic home aesthetic. “Things always come back around, and the unique features of American Folk portraiture have a unique charm that speaks to the antique-loving crowd,” she explains.
Bass notes this art style has a timeless quality that continues to resonate with modern audiences. “The naive and sometimes whimsical style of folk portraits is appealing for its charming authenticity,” she notes. “These artworks are characterized by their directness and simplicity, often featuring bold colors, flat compositions, and exaggerated features that highlight the subject’s personality and status.” Because this art style is so straightforward, Bass says its simple aesthetic contrasts with some of the more complex and abstract art forms many of us are used to seeing today.
In addition to portraiture, folk paintings in general are coming back into style. This is possibly due to a rise in popular ’90s home decor trends, which included a blend of folk-country and Americana styles.
Decorating with Folk Art
One of the best ways to incorporate the trend into your space is by framing folk-inspired prints and displaying them alongside your current artwork. If you go this route, though, Bass recommends pairing the historic style with more modern accents to create a balance. “You can most likely find somewhat inexpensive folk portraits that resonate with you and add them to a gallery wall of more contemporary works,” she notes.
If you really love the art style as a whole (not just the portraiture, but also landscapes and more) Struble recommends getting an American Folk art coffee table book. You can also incorporate some of the motifs through a fabric throw pillow or even wallpaper (this Zinnia Wallpaper from Hygge & West is a stunning representation of the trend).
Anyone who loves antiques might also want to lean into the folk art trend through decorative furniture. New pieces with folk art motifs are harder to find, but antique malls and thrift stores might offer that classic Americana Folk art feel. With the trend on the rise, you can find some fun accent decor pieces, too, like folk art-inspired rugs.
Where to Buy American Folk Art Paintings
The best places to find American Folk portraiture and art are thrift stores, antique malls, and estate sales. You’ll likely encounter authentic pieces, either from the original artists or replicas from the 1990s, when folk art last made its mark on the home decor front. Museum gift shops are another great place to get the look, and some — like The Huntington Library — even have online stores, so you don’t have to wait for your next visit.
Etsy has also had a wide range of Folk Art paintings and prints, some of which are even available via digital download to easily print and frame on the spot. If you want to give it that authentic feel, you can add a layer of Mod Podge on top for an oil painting-esque finish. Here are some of my favorite American Folk Art portraits you can buy right now.
