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Custom Fraktur (Folk Art) Certificates
Pennsylvania Dutch Fraktur (or folk art) is an art-form that originated in Pennsylvania Dutch communities in the 1740s-1860s. “Fraktur,” or “broken,” referred to the broken style of writing that was used on these certificates, and eventually came to refer to the art form as well. In a time when legal documents were non-existent or hard to come by, these works were both community-focused and intimate, while also providing valuable historical records. Often the names of the artists were left off, as the focus was less on the artist, and more on the community or family that their work was serving. Motifs were shared and copied, which resulted in a very recognizable style, though individual artists still held their own aesthetic.
As a native of Lancaster County, I was interested in learning more about the legacy and art of fraktur, and took classes from Emily Smucker-Beidler at the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society in 2019. The community focus and intimacy of these certificate resonated with me, and I am now happy to offer a “modern” take on these folk art certificates for many different occasions, be it a house blessing, Quaker or self-uniting marriage certificate, wedding or birth announcement, etc. Templates of pre-existing fraktur images are available at a lower price and at a quicker turn-around time, and completely custom works are available as well. These works are digitally printed onto thick, luxurious, archival paper. Please contact me to discuss pricing and custom quotes!