ussian folk art expresses the artistic impulses of peasants and artisans to
decorate their homes and objects of daily use. It reflects both timeless
traditions and changing conditions in the Russian countryside, shows
peasants' responses to nature and their deep spiritual connection with
natural forces. The landscape of Russia, the rich variety of nature
in all seasons, the forests of birch trees and pines, the fields of flax and
grain provided the inspiration and the materials for generations of
folk artists. These men and women, woodcarvers, painters, weavers, potters,
and makers of ingenious toys, worked within their peasant communities, using
traditional materials and techniques but adding touches of their own. Some
artists became well known for their special skills, and many signed and
dated their creations. Today folk art is preserved and exhibited in museums
all over Russia.