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.