About Us
Did you know that early New England burying grounds were the first public art galleries in the New World? Even today, many of these verdant, tranquil sites contain a remarkable progression of the artistic, cultural and religious history of the region. Often, old gravestones explain how an entire family lived and died. Neglect, natural aging, and vandalism, unfortunately, have resulted in the destruction of some of the finest examples of early stone carving, and numerous old cemetaries are closed to the public to protect the remaining stones.
Through careful hand-rubbing on special paper. Gravestone Artwear® has preserved hundreds of images representing the evolution of the early stone carvers’ art from 17th century symbols to the more sophisticated and artistic tableaux of the 19th century. This catalog illustrates depictions of 17th through 19th century gravestone carvings from New England, ancient Celtic designs from Ireland and medieval brass rubbings from England.
At our York Village, Maine, studio these beautiful images are made into silk screens and meticulously printed onto t-shirts and a collection of velvet garments and accessories. Hand tags describe the designs, their origins, and detail the symbolism used by the stone carvers.
To see the entire collection of Gravestone Artwear, as well as unique gift items which complement our products, we invite you to visit our studio. And we’ll be delighted to give you information on touring some of our favorite local graveyards where some of the finest examples of New England stone carving exist.