The tradition continues with quality dealers, exclusive exhibits, special guest speakers, popular walking tours, and more.  It all takes place in Nashville, Tennessee at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel on February 18–20, 2010.  Shop the finest in Americana, fine art, folk art, pottery, quilts, hunting, sports, nautical, lighting, furniture, hooked rugs, baskets, paint, pewter, silver, and quality decorative accessories from north to south, and east to west.

Highlights of this year’s show include the most knowledgeable and respected antique dealers of Americana, Folk Art, and decorative accessories, plus, the legendary opening night Champagne Preview Party, the dramatic Center Aisle exhibit entitled The Re-Flowering of American Folk Art showcasing folk art from exhibiting dealers’ private collections, Friday morning’s popular pre-show Walking Tour guided by collector/expert tour guides, Friday afternoon’s lecture complementing the Folk Art theme “Extraordinary Art of Ordinary Artists in America”, and Saturday afternoon’s second annual Roundtable Discussion on the hot topic, “The Value of Refinishing and Restoration; Viewpoints from Professionals.”

The magic of Heart of Country begins with the famous “Heart of Country Champagne Preview Party” on Thursday, February 18th from 6-10 p.m.  Preview Party tickets are available in advance at $75 each or $80 at the door and includes free daily readmission.  Patrons who arrive early are treated to live Nashville music in the Opryland hallways and a cash bar on site. Once the preview party begins, it’s the very first opportunity to purchase from the finest array in Americana and folk art, dine on the lavish buffet, and enjoy the ambiance. The preview night buffet itself has become legendary, spanning the full center aisle of the show. The distinctive southern menu features heart shaped cheese biscuits with sliced country ham, barbequed beef sliced onto warm hearth rolls, tables overflowing with fresh fruits, cheeses, spreads, and salads, ending with a dessert table of cinnamon ice cream, rum cake and cherry pie.

The show continues on Friday from 10 am to 8 pm, and Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Daily admission on Friday and Saturday is $10. Parking is free on Lot E with free shuttle service to the show entrance.

This year’s Center Aisle Gallery Exhibit is entitled, The Re-Flowering of American Folk Art.
American Folk Art is strongly representative of the spirit of the country and a fresh enthusiasm for it becomes apparent with each passing decade. New examples of it are no doubt being created at this very moment. This exciting exhibit, inspired by one of collectors’ favorite publications The Flowering of American Folk Art co-authored by Alice Winchester and Jean Lipman, will celebrate the 35 years of emerged folk art since this iconic book was first published. Selections for this exhibit, some of which will be for sale, have come exclusively from the private collections of exhibiting dealers and friends of Heart of Country and include painted furniture, textiles, decorative accessories, utilitarian objects, and items for play that have not been out for public viewing in some time. Jean Lipman, co-author of The Flowering of American Folk Art (1974) said,“The body of American folk art is rich beyond belief.”  With this year’s Gallery Exhibit, Heart of Country is proud to showcase further examples of the depth and richness of folk art as a stronghold in America’s decorative heritage.

Friday, February 19 – 8:30 a.m. Popular Pre-Show Walking Tour
Take this unique journey through the show before it opens with one of several esteemed collector/experts for personally guided walking tours Friday morning promptly at 8:30 a.m.  Perfect for new collectors and seasoned collectors alike. A Heart of Country favorite!  Tickets $25 each at the show.
 
Friday, February 19 – 1 p.m.  Folk Art - Extraordinary Art of Ordinary America
As an accompaniment to the Folk Art Exhibit, this talk features Stacy Hollander, Senior curator of the American Folk Art Museum in New York City, and Patrick Bell of Olde Hope Antiques in Pennsylvania for a rare opportunity to hear from those who know it best. They will share their perspective on the breadth of what is considered folk art, the growth of interest in it, and the increased value placed on this unique art form. The discussion will include anecdotes and insights from our panel members and Q & A with the audience. Free with admission.

Saturday, February 20 – 1 p.m.  Speaking From the Heart – Second Annual Roundtable Discussion
During the very popular debut of this event last year, this year’s focus emerged as a hot topic; “The Value of Refinishing & Restoration; Viewpoints from Professionals.”  Whether referring to fine art, folk art, furniture, pottery, or textiles, this discussion by experts in the field will help to illuminate the fine points of distinction when considering a purchase. This forum headlined by veteran dealers, George Allen of Raccoon Creek Antiques in Pennsylvania, Woody Straub Fine Art & Antiques in Florida, and Bev Norwood of Spirit of America Antiques in Maryland, will provide novice buyers and seasoned collectors alike in-depth educational information about what to look for at a quality antiques show, steps to building a meaningful collection in today’s market, how to invest wisely and find the best value in purchasing genuine antiques. Free with admission.

VIP Collectors Package hosted by Andrew Richmond and Hollie Davis, popular authors of the Maine Antiques Digest column The Young Collectors offers a special opportunity for young collectors, new collectors, or young-at-heart collectors. Starting off Thursday evening, meet Andrew and Hollie for an exclusive behind the scenes visit just prior to the Opening Night Preview Party. Then enjoy the festivities and first opportunity to buy at the famous Preview Party. Prior to opening Friday morning, Andrew and Hollie will lead the group on a walking tour through the show pointing out items of interest for starting a new collection, or enhancing an existing collection, while being mindful of an emerging collector’s budget. You’ll be inspired to view the world of antiques with the same adventurous spirit that launched their journey into collecting. This special package at $110 per person requires advance reservations.

Enhance your Heart of Country visit by staying at the magnificent Gaylord Opryland Resort Hotel at the special Heart of Country rate during the show week of February 15 - 21.  For hotel reservations call 800-947-8243 for a spectacular southern getaway!

For further information or to download form for advance reservations, visit the Show’s web site at www.heartofcountry.com or contact susan@heartofcountry.com or 314-962-8580.  

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