Posted 8 years ago
Touchdown
(2 items)
I discovered this artist on a sideroad near my town of Nottawa, Ontario. His name was Milson Morwood - just passed away this year. Milson started carving pretty late, I would say in his 70's ( he was 86 when he passed) and did it purely for his own enjoyment. I bought honey and corn at his stand and noticed some carvings (not for sale) on the shelves behind him. I started buying and he kept carving. I think you'll agree he's as good as anyone currently being collected.
My sister and I have about 30 pieces between us. His kids have some but I don't know of any other collectors. There really don't seem to be many Ontario carvers, but his work reminds me of Ivan Law's. Not shown are some great ones of Milson and friend playing checkers, Milson dancing with a friend, a man carrying a canoe etc. etc. Canadians love to collect Maud Lewis, but I think he's just as good in his own way.
These are just great folk art. He has a very amusing take on things and the characters are wonderful. I think you are fortunate to have them.
I would consider contacting a folk art curator at your bigger Canadian museums and letting them know about this guy. I'm sure they would be really interested in him.
Hi, I agree with you that Mr.Morwood`s work is wonderful. I was fortunate today to purchase 23 pieces from a local charity shop in Collingwood ( Furry Friends on Hurontario Street ). There are still about 20 pieces left ( which are still in boxes in the back room ). It appears his daughter contacted the charity to see if they would be interested in taking them ( more then likely a bit overwhelmed with dealing with all his things after his passing). Hopefully, you will read this message and visit Furry Friends before they are all sold ( they are only open on the weekends). I would love to hear any stories you could tell me about Mr. Morwood.
wonderful!!
Thanks FrogDog1 - it looks like there are at least three of us with fairly large collections of his stuff. I did purchase another 20 pieces at the estate sale hosted by his family and saw others buying there as well. I'll be sure to check out Furry Friends.