Howard Finster, born on February 2, 1916 in Valley Head, Alabama, was the oldest of thirteen siblings. Growing up on a farm, he developed a deep connection to nature and found inspiration in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
From a young age, Finster felt called to spread the word of God. He began giving sermons in his early teens and eventually became the Pastor of Mount Carmel Baptist Church in Fort Payne, Alabama. His religious beliefs would play a significant role in his artistic career.
Despite his religious duties, Finster's passion for art never waned. In the 1960s, he began creating sculptures and paintings that reflected his unique vision of the world. His whimsical and colorful works caught the attention of the art world, leading to numerous exhibitions and accolades.
In 1961, Finster purchased a plot of land in Summerville, Georgia, where he would eventually establish Paradise Gardens. This outdoor museum, filled with his sculptures and folk art creations, would become his greatest legacy.
Finster's talents were not limited to the art world. He also found success designing album covers for popular bands such as Talking Heads and R.E.M. His iconic designs helped bring his unique artistic style to a wider audience.
Today, Howard Finster is remembered as a pioneering artist who blended the worlds of religion and folk art. His Paradise Gardens museum houses over 50,000 sculptures and other works, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations to come.
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