Pickett, Joseph (1848-1918), was an American folk artist. Pickett was a storekeeper, carpenter, and shipbuilder and painted only as a hobby. He had no art lessons. Pickett was born and lived in New Hope, Pennsylvania, where he found most of the subjects of his work. Only four of Pickett’s paintings are known to exist.
Pickett’s best-known painting, titled Manchester Valley, portrays New Hope High School. The painting shows Pickett’s characteristic rich, vibrant color, complex line patterns, and thick, gritty textures. Pickett did not achieve recognition as a folk artist until after his death.
