STONEWARE COLLECTION
Adam started collecting stoneware at age 11 after finding two antique jugs on his grandfather's land, igniting his passion for art collection. By age 14, he had amassed 60 jugs and continued to build his collection by attending auctions, estate sales, and antique shows.
Over time, he acquired rare pieces from New York State and the East Coast. Despite his love for collecting, Adam believes in sharing his art, donating 100 pieces to the New York State Museum in 1996. Since then, he's donated over 500 pieces, now part of an ongoing exhibition showcasing 40 unique stoneware pieces, including jugs, crocks, pitchers, jars, and water coolers, considered significant examples of American Folk Art.
THe Gallerist
At 21, Adam’s love for antique stoneware led him to New York City, where he began working for Hirschl & Adler Folk Gallery. During his time there, he was able to learn how to curate art exhibits and run a gallery. Two years later he opened his own gallery in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village, called the American Folk Art Gallery.
It was through this studio that Adam’s portfolio began to flourish, even drawing the attention of interior designers like Mark Hampton and Interior Design Hall of Fame member Naomi Leff, who eventually became customers. Although the gallery is no longer operating, Adam’s legacy and enthusiasm for the arts continues to grow and thrive.
Decorated Stoneware from the Weitsman Collection by John L. Scherer