The Howard Finster Paradise Garden

Originally known as the Bible House, the Paradise Garden arose from Finster's affinity for collecting and repairing items. Finster began building Paradise Garden in the 1960s, attempting to "display all the inventions of mankind" (Kirwin, 2002, 90). This resourceful sculpture of various materials was later embellished with Finster's unique mosaics of painted art and biblical messages. Finster called himself  "a man of vision", and attributed the construction of the garden to the visions he received from God (Rajer, 1996, 36). This vernacular structure is both a chapel, a gallery, and a garden. The Paradise Garden is a powerful statement of religious beliefs and creative expression. Through the collaboration and conservation of volunteers and fellow folk artists, the Paradise Garden still exists as a living testament to the divine visions of Howard Finster. Finster's art has created a rich tapestry of folklore, and his devotion to God and art continues to inspire creativity and self-expression.