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Visions of Inspiration | Howard Finster
Issue: 2020/11 - November
Portrait by A H Ludy of Howard Finster
Around Back at Rocky’s Place is celebrating the life and the unique vision of internationally-recognized folk artist Howard Finster.
Finster (1916-2001) was born in Alabama, but he lived most of his life in Georgia – both states claim the rights to this most famous folk artist of all time.
The inspiration for his work came from visions he had, starting in childhood. When he was 16, he became an evangelical Baptist preacher. He carried the word of God all over the South with traveling tent revivals. He was around 50 years old when he began creating art with a message. He was around 50 years old when he began creating art as the voice of God instructed him to create sacred art with a message.
Aside from preaching, Howard was also a repairman and used these skills in the creation of his folk art environment, Paradise Gardens. On the property of the gardens, you’ll find the World’s Folk Art Church.
Another notable piece from his profession is the Tower of Bicycles, as he was known to repair bikes for all the kids in the neighborhood.
Howard would say that he created art from other people’s junk. He used tools, broken dolls, bicycles and anything he could find at the dump.
What sent Howard into superstardom was his appearance on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and his cameos in the music videos and album covers by REM and Talking Heads.
In addition to seeing Howard’s work in major art museums all around the world, check out his work at aroundbackatrockysplace.com or, as we are open only by appointment, call the gallery at (706) 265-6030 to set up a time to visit his work in person. You can also email [email protected].
Around Back at Rocky’s Place is located at 3631 Highway 53 East in Dawsonville, Georgia.
