Traditional art tours make a circuit of fine-art studios and galleries. But little is traditional about the art in Paradise Gardens, the home and workplace of late folk artist and Baptist minister Howard Finster.
Finster received a vision from God to create 5,000 sacred works, which he completed in 1985, then produced more than 46,991 pieces of art before his death in 2001. He was a forerunner in “outsider art” (the work of self-taught art-makers). His eclectic works in graphic arts, mosaics and structural design are showcased in Paradise Gardens.
A miniature cathedral on the grounds at The Rock Garden in Calhoun, Georgia. (Photo: Facebook.com)
The Folk Art Chapel is the centerpiece of Paradise Gardens. (Contributed photo by Paradise Gardens Foundation)So an Outsider Art Trail presented by the Paradise Garden Foundation just seems a natural fit.
The first Outsider Art Trail is set for Saturday, Aug. 18, visiting six spots around Summerville and Calhoun, Georgia. Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind for a day of local color at its best.
The Outsider Trail will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is a self-guided, dog-friendly tour of scenic Southern spots off the beaten path.