From Fields To Canvas: The Inspiring Tale of Woodie Long, The Self-Taught Artist
Author : Mark Smith | Published On : 03 Nov 2023
Woodie Long, a unique artist, was born in the heart of Plant City, Florida, on October 19, 1942. His life's journey was marked by many remarkable challenges and a distinct path to artistic expression. Woodie's story is a testament to perseverance, self-discovery, and the enduring power of creativity.
In this blog, we will explore the life and artistry of Long as an extraordinary painter.
The Early Years: A Life of Hardship and Constant Movement
Woodie's early life was anything but ordinary. Born into a family of twelve children, he was the son of a migrant farmer, constantly on the move in search of work. At the tender age of three, his world revolved around carrying water to seedlings in the fields.
He never attended school, and his family's life was one of constant movement for the first fourteen years as they chased employment opportunities.
A Turning Point: Settling in Tampa and Family Challenges
After years of wandering, Woodie's family settled in a housing project in Tampa, Florida. However, this new chapter was not without its struggles. Woodie's father soon abandoned the family, leaving them to navigate life on their own. He never had the opportunity to attend public school, and the future looked uncertain.
Discovering Independence: A Life as a House Painter
As life unfolded, Woodie Long found his independence by becoming a house painter. He embraced a nomadic lifestyle, reminiscent of his earlier years, and experienced two marriages while raising two children. It wasn't until he found lasting love with Dot, his wife of many years, that his life took a unique turn.
From Walls to Canvas: The Birth of an Artist
Woodie's true artistic journey began when he decided to share the story of his life with his children. His desire to preserve his memories led him to the world of painting. He had previously painted animated scenes on walls, often covering them before they were discovered.
But one day, driven by an urge to paint a house, he used his wife's art brushes and paint from a community art class she had attended. This marked the turning point in his life as an artist.
Encouragement and Recognition: The Journey to Success
When Dot, his wife, discovered his paintings drying one day, she saw something truly special. She provided instant encouragement, recognizing the talent within her husband. Woodie's vibrant and joyful creations, inspired by his memories, soon caught the attention of people from far and wide.
A Legacy of Art: From Personal Creations to Global Acclaim
Woodie's art began to be sought out and purchased by art enthusiasts. His work found its way into major private and corporate collections across the United States and abroad.
His artwork graced the walls of New York exhibitions from 1992 onwards and became part of the permanent collections of renowned institutions, including the Cooperstown Museum, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Wiregrass Museum, and the Columbus Museum of Art.
Reaching Beyond Canvas: Woodie's Art in the World
Woodie's art extended far beyond the confines of galleries and museums. His paintings were featured in numerous books, adorned CD covers like "The Song Catcher," and appeared in articles within major magazines and newspapers, including the Smithsonian, The Washington Post, and The New York Times.
His Final Years.
On October 12, 2009, just a few days before his 67th birthday, Woodie Long left this world, but his legacy endures. He left behind a story that speaks to the transformative power of self-expression and the resilience of the human spirit.
Conclusion
In Woodie Long’s story, we find the beauty of artistic expression and the enduring ability of the human spirit to overcome challenges and create something truly remarkable. His art lives on as a testament to the power of following one's passion and sharing the memories that shape our lives.
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