The Rev. Howard Finster (1916 –2001) was a Baptist preacher and artist from Summerville, Georgia. He claimed to be inspired by God to spread the gospel through the environment of Paradise Garden and over 46,000 pieces of art. His creations overlap folk art, outsider art, naïve art, and visionary art.

His images combine text with religious messages and popular icons, including Coke bottles, George Washington and Elvis Presley.  He appeared on the “Tonight Show” and his art has appeared on R.E.M. and Talking Heads album covers.


The Rev. Howard Finster