Art in the Ozarks
Someone was once quoted as saying “Art=Life.” For many people, this quote is very true. Happiness, love, sadness, fear, and almost any other human emotion can be channeled into artwork of any kind. Many different regions have their own special twist on art – Broadway, for example, is all about the music! Western cowboy states feature talented leather artists and silversmiths, while coastal regions usually incorporate the sea into the art that is created there. Branson, Missouri, located in the heart of the Ozarks, also has their own art style that gives folks a true taste of the Ozarks. Read on to learn about some unique Branson area art!
Bluegrass: There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that music is an art form, and the Ozarks certainly sings to their own tune! Bluegrass music is a sound all its own that is quite localized to the Ozarks area. One of Branson’s original shows, Presley’s Country Jubilee, had a lot to do with this. The Presley family, each member a talented musician with a unique Ozarks sound, used to perform for their local community in underground caves, making good use of the natural acoustics! Folks from all over would come to hear the Presley’s play, and soon the family decided to buy an actual theater to perform their bluegrass music in. Today, Presley’s Country Jubilee, complete with Ozarks bluegrass, is still one of the most popular shows in Branson. Bluegrass music can also be heard at Silver Dollar City, and other great Branson shows and attractions.
Chainsaw Art: When people think of sculptures, they often think of patient artist chipping away at blocks of marble with delicate tools. Well, you can make a sculpture using a chainsaw too! S & S Chainsaw Art, located on the shores of Table Rock Lake, makes some pretty amazing Branson area art with Ozarks flair. S & S is a proud member of the United Chainsaw Carvers Guild, and it is no wonder why when you look at their beautiful pieces! Whimsical black bears, bed frames, benches, personalized name signs, lamps, toilet lids and more are all crafted right here in the Ozarks!
Leather Work: Leather work is quite a craft, and an art form that has been practiced for centuries. For some beautiful works of art, and to see this unique pastime in action, check out Crooked Sky Trading Post located in the Branson Mill Craft Village! At Crooked Sky Trading Post, ‘Rattlesnake Eddie’ can be found hard at work crafting beautiful guitar straps, holsters, belts and more. Only U.S. leather is used in Eddie’s art projects.
There is no doubt that the Ozarks is a unique region unlike anywhere else in the world. It’s only fitting that some of the Branson area art found here is the same way!
