Howard Finster Vision House Museum

"Today was May Market at Paradise Gardens. A small event and not crowded. A great chance to see some local artists and a High School Exhibit as well as the garden and museum. Some new (to me) exhibits that show cased Finster's wood works. A man of many talents! A beautiful day...hats off to the caretakers, the gardens get better every visit ... Job well done."

"The Howard Finster Vision House is a treat indeed! I “accidentally” discovered it during a Finster Fest a couple years ago- as it exists today officially outside the gates of Paradise Gardens- on the corner of Greeson and Knox. The Vision House Museum is operated by Art aficionado, and a super-cool chap, David Leonardis. A longtime Finster collector who has existed in the Finster orbit since the 90’s -and who knew Finster personally. The museum is a rich salon-style exhibit of Howard Finster and family Art and memorabilia. For me, it’s an essential part of the Paradise Garden experience. When I watch old videos online with Finster working on or speaking with folks about his art, it’s in a place like the Vision House Museum. You feel like you’re in those same rooms... Apparently, it’s the first house Finster owned on the block. Finster mentions details of the house in the “Stranger From Another World” book—including the crawlspace he dug out for extra workspace, with some early artwork “numbering” that Finster maintained to fulfill his commitment to make “sacred Art”. It is a beautiful remnant of the world that Howard Finster inhabited. It’s the real deal! David Leonardis is a cool guy and can tell you a lot about his old friend Howard Finster. Check it out!"

"What a wonderful family outing to experience Howard Finster art. It was an impressive collection. David Leonardis, owner of the vision museum, takes great pride in the museum. He has rich, deep knowledge of Howard Finster and his art. His stories were very interesting. Even our 17 year old enjoyed it! Truly a gem!"

"The Howard Finster Vision House museum on the grounds of the original Howard Finster property overlooking the Paradise Garden houses the most impressive single collection of Howard Finster’s art I have seen in over 30 years of keeping up with the Finster phenomenon. Along with other artists’ Finster related pieces the house, which was once occupied by Howard, is being retrofitted to have an Air B’nB type residence which should be ready by the end of this year. The Vision House should definitely be included in any plans by serious Finster aficionados planning to visit Paradise Garden. Chicago art Dealer David Leonardis Is the proprietor and has a wealth of information and first hand stories about Howard himself. The Howard Finster Vision House museum is open by appointment only. Contact David Leonardis through the HowardFinster.com website to set up a tour. Review by ~Robin Merritt, ArtFRONT presentations. ArtFRONT.com"

"I had a fantastic time visiting the Howard Finster Vision House -- What a truly unique place to see and experience the works of Howard and learn his amazing and inspiring story. The museum offers a great look into his life, work and impact on contemporary, folk and outsider art. If you get a chance to meet David, the curator and owner, you'll be able to see the passion and inspiration of Howard that lives on through him! A must see for any art collector or patron of the arts!"