CLARKSVILLE, TN.- The Customs House Museum presents The Outsiders: Folk Art from the Hicks & Vander Elst Collections in the museum’s Orgain Gallery. Opened July 10th, the exhibition features the work of notable artists Reverend Howard Finster, Georgia Blizzard, Robert Roberg, and Mose T, among others.

“This showing of works exemplifies the characteristics of the Outsider artist,” states Exhibits Curator Terri Jordan. “We are thrilled that Mr. Hicks and Mr. Vander Elst are sharing their treasures with us. This show is a great treat for the museum’s visitors. Our younger guests seem especially excited with the artwork.”

Among the 35 pieces presented is a self portrait by Finster with his explanation behind his creation of Paradise Garden. While living in Pennville, Georgia, Finster had a vision from God was telling him to paint sacred art; and so he began the construction of what he called his "Plant Farm Museum". Other stand out pieces include a selection of Georgia Blizzard pots. Georgia’s roots in the Apache, Irish, and Appalachian cultures can be seen in her non-functional clay vessels. Her works frequently depicted local or family characters from her memory.

Works by Robert Roberg are highlighted under black lights. Robert Roberg used to preach on street corners, He felt his words were ignored by passersby more than they heard. One day he picked up chalk and drew references to scripture on the sidewalk. He noticed people stopped, looked and listened to his every word. This began his foray into expressing his religious beliefs with paint.

The Outsiders will be on view through September 7th.