Bonita Skaggs-Parsons

Isonville, Kentucky

Folk Art is when you take what you have and make it into what you feel. If it feels right to you, then that is right. I guess I am a Folk Artist since I have had no formal training.

A lot of my influences come from my grandparent's stories and the influence of the hills and the people around us. I also would like to thank Minnie Adkins and her Day in the Country [event] for our exposure.

The Story of the Crucifix

This piece of art comes with a story. Three years ago my Dad was hospitalized for an extended illness. The doctors did not seem to be able to do anything for him. I spent most of my time crying, and praying that he would recover. After about 22 days of the same sad routine, I felt as though I was truly losing it. I laid down and went to sleep and dreamed of this piece. Upon awakening I grabbed a piece of paper and pencil and drew my dream.

The first thing I did the next morning was take my poor husband Rocky and drag him out in the rain to find the right piece of wood. He didn't complain, and just followed me with a saw. After we had climbed up and down hills. I was exhausted and discouraged when we hadn't found it. We returned to our yard and there, in a branch from the chestnut tree we had pruned, was the thing I'd been looking for. Perfectly shaped for my dream piece.

The next three days I worked every time I had a chance. I would go visit Dad and come home and carve. On the fourth day I finished the piece. That evening when I went to see Dad there was a marked improvement. I feel that the Crucifix was sent to me to help me through the rough times. Each time that I carve a new crucifix, I hope that it will bring it's new owner the same blessing.

My Dad got well, and is still giving me hugs of comfort today, just as the carving of the crucifix did when I was so in need of reassurance.