What a treasure!! I can't imagine how he managed to tear that! it is beautiful!!Might be nice if you called the man & told him that your wife had gifted you with 1 of his works of art. He'd be happy to know you are the proud owner. Remind him that you knew him from your class. Makes them happy to know people appreciate their work still. I wrote a woman in midwest after getting her handmade bear at a thrift shop!! She was thrilled & had sold it for $25-30 depending on vest-hat etc. I think I paid $1.98. Jan

That is fantastic, and then to hear he's an elderly artist with special needs at that. He must be an amazing man!
I can't believe Carol paid only $5 for this. It should be worth at least 10 TIMES that amount.
Where are you going to hang this big, beautiful piece?

hugs, Karen

That is a wonderful piece. I'm so glad that Carol grabbed it for you. It is even more special since you know the artist. It will mean even more to you over time as you see it hanging in your home.

~Micki~

That is really fantastic!

I love this artwork! Here's the moving story behind the artist! He is such a neat guy!!!! Bear Hugs! Kirk

Here is a link that might be useful: Artist

That is beautiful. What a wonderful find! I am sure you are thrilled!!!!

Thanks for the story on the artist!! Very interesting man, shame he "became retarded" probably because nobody wanted to deal with circumstances surrounding his birth, easier to lock him up! Amazing that he doesn't even look at paper he is tearing, he must "see it in his mind" makes his work even more interesting! Thanks! Jan

First of all- You let Carol go to a Church Rummage Sale without you? My husband would never let me out alone like that. I would put my foot down if I were you and demand that she always takes you with her. tee hee ha ha

Now seriously, Love the bears and bees and love the story behind the artist. What an honor to have that piece. Excellent choice Carol!!!!

OMGosh! Can't believe this man's talent! What a wonderful treasure!

What a wonderful work. And a touching story.
kathy

What a great story and a wonderful piece of art. The fact that he tore those pieces to look like that is astounding, mentally challenged or not.So sad he was institutanilzed like that at a young age back then. Now, we know more how to help the mentally challedged. Im glad his art teacher took the time to help him learn to live independantly.It is such a nice piece, I know you are thrilled to have it in your home! Judy

I used to work for Goodwill Industries years ago and met many "retarded" people who were amazing in their own way. This artist's story doesn't surprise me in the least. That is a wonderful find, especially since you know the story behind the artist! If you ever have a chance, please let him know how much we admire his work!