"Abundance" Paintings by Kyrrha Sevco at Stripe MEN

Abundance, inspired by Pennsylvania Dutch Hex Signs

Frequently seen painted on barns in central and eastern Pennsylvania, hex signs are a common motif of Pennsylvania Dutch folk art. Often taking the form of stars within circles, these designs grew out of the Fraktur and folk art traditions of the mid 1800’s. Some believe that the term “hex” has occult connotations, as the word is derived from the German “Hexe” and the Dutch “Heks”, meaning witch. In recent years, hex signs have come to be used as talismans to ward off bad fortune.

The ‘Abundance’ series was painted with the intention of creating a sense of plenty in the home where it is hung. Each hex sign features an eight-pointed star on a 15” x 15” fence board. Slight variations in the wood’s character reveal upcycled origins, with designs painted with acrylic and a polymer varnish used as a sealant. Some of the works also contain collaged paper.

Join us Friday December 4th from 5-9 at Stripe MEN for a wonderful First Friday event featuring works by local painter Kyrrha Sevco.