Papa's Paintings

Figure A-- The nautical themes on this tableware were inspired by Frank Fry's homes in Michigan and Florida, but the motivation comes from a uniquely American life that spans nearly a century. As a research scientist, Fry patented the first artificial heart, but in his eighth decade, he has become one of America's most popular and collectible folk artists.

Figure B--Fry was a builder. He and his wife built several of the homes in which they live from scratch. This means everything--from laying the bricks to installing the heating. Several years ago, Fry found himself in a depression after heart bypass surgery, but Papa's Paintings don't reflect that depression. They reflect the joy he finds in life now.

Figure C--He started with tabletops, and as his depression subsided, his work grew to more than 75 pieces per year. He found that once the movements of his brush became more than mechanical, the more he became intrigued by painting.