“It’s obvious that it is hard to pick one
painting or person to say that inspires me. After thinking about this topic I
narrowed it down to Henry Darger. Henry Darger didn’t set out to be an artist
and in fact his paintings and drawings were only made to illustrate his massive
series of books. What I like best about him is that he incorporated so many
processes and techniques from pencil, ink, water color to collage. Areas where
he lacked the artistic technical skill he would figure out a way around it by
either incorporating collage or using the magic of the local photocopy machine
at the five and dime. The works are so beautiful yet disturbing that it must be
seen in person to fully get the true experience.  His art to me, is that
regardless of skill or formal training you can create beautiful and thought
provoking pieces if you truly want to. Here is a link to learn a little bit
more about Henry Darger and his works.”