Early American Decorative Art by Nancy Bloomer

Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum, 295 N. Main St., Canandaigua.  Copies of Early American Decorative Art objects painted by local artist Nancy Bloomer are on display in the second floor gallery at the Granger Homestead through August 15, 2010.

The collection includes theorem paintings on velvet, fireboards and an overmantel piece.  There are examples of faux bois painting, painted wood including a game board, a small trunk, a Noah's Ark and painted tin boxes.  Two Hitchcock chairs have been repaired and painted, as was a darling child's rocker.

Ms. Bloomer has a piece of scherenschnitte on display.  The origin of this paper cutting was China wit the invention of paper.  The art form traveled through Europe and came to this country in the 1700s with German immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania.  It was used for everything from birth certificates to love letters and became a popular decorative art form.

Nancy Bloomer was introduced to this art form by members of the Historical Society of Early American Decoration, and she says it was love at first sight.  She learned the techniques on display under the direction of guild members in the 1980's and 1990's.

Please go to our Flickr account to view some images that are on display.  Click here.

The Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum is located at 295 N. Main St., Canandaigua.  The Homestead includes an 1816 Federal-style mansion, a law office from the 1820's and a collection of antique carriages and sleighs.  Guided tours are available Tuesdays and Wednesdays 1-5 pm, Thursday through Sunday 11 am-5 pm.  Adult admission is $6, Senior $5, and students $2.

The gallery is open during regular tour hours.  Admission to the exhibit is included in the price of a tour ticket.

Adults $6, Seniors $5, Students $2