On the Road to Centre, Alabama

On the Road

My first trip south to buy art was in 2007. I had been collecting art for a few years and couldn’t wait to explore a few back roads of Alabama and Georgia and actually meet some artists.  So my friend Amy, from Ohio, flew down to Atlanta to meet me and we were off to find some great art.  

One of our most memorable stops was with Myrtice West (1923-2010) in Centre, Alabama. Dropping in on Myrtice she graciously opened her home to us and share all her artwork, which covered the living room walls. 

As you may know, her work is deeply religious and has been chronicled in the book Wonders to Behold: The Visionary Art of Myrtice West.  We ended our visit holding hands in prayer--one of those magical moments on the road that I will always cherish. 

West passed away on April 12, 2010, at her home in Centre. To learn more about her life visit www.encyclopediaofalabama.org