Shoemaker's Sign Board c. 1938

Elmer G. Anderson made this signboard with watercolor and graphite on paper. It depicts a tall boot. Notice how the material influences the work's appearance, with its subtle texture and muted color. The artist skillfully uses watercolor to mimic the appearance of leather and wood. The artist's technique captures the inherent qualities of these materials. The boot itself, a symbol of craftsmanship and trade, suggests the labor and skill involved in the shoemaking process. Signboards like these were once common markers of small businesses, created to attract customers. They offer a glimpse into the world of labor, and local commerce. By appreciating the materials, the making, and the context of this signboard, we gain a deeper understanding of the connection between craft, commerce, and everyday life. It is a great example of folk art.