By Jacquelyn Oak and Gwendolyn Dubois Shaw. Cooperstown, NY: Fenimore Art Museum, 2012. 64 pages, 56 images, softcover, 9 1/2 x 12 in.

Artist and Visionary: William Matthew Prior Revealed, the first exhibition devoted solely to this American folk artist, includes more than 40 oil paintings spanning prior’s career from 1824 to 1856. Through the mastery of his craft and his pragmatic marketing strategy, Prior was able to document the faces of middle-class Americans throughout his lifetime, making art accessible to a previously overlooked group. A versatile artist, Prior is well known not only for the range of his technique but for the diversity of his sitters. Prior’s involvement with Millerism (early Adventism) was instrumental in his personal development as well as providing access to new clients, including many African Americans.

The exhibition, organized by the Fenimore Art Museum, is on view at the American Folk Art Museum January 24–May 26, 2013.

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