Puppet: Bull c. 1940

Hilda Olson made this watercolor painting of a puppet, sometime in the 20th century. Olson’s “Puppet: Bull” offers us a glimpse into the world of folk art, which often serves as a reflection of everyday life and cultural values. The bull puppet might seem like a simple toy. Yet, it evokes questions about labor, agriculture, and the relationship between humans and animals in rural communities. Consider the role of puppetry itself. Puppets serve as a form of storytelling and social commentary, often used to convey messages that might be too sensitive or controversial for direct expression. Are there elements of satire or critique embedded in this image? Or, does it offer a nostalgic view of rural life? Olson’s bull serves as a reminder of the power of art to both reflect and shape our understanding of the world around us. What does it make you feel?