Mack Self

Mack Self (born August 12, 1926, died January 19, 2006) was an American visual artist associated with the Outsider Art movement. He is primarily known for his drawings and paintings, often executed on found materials such as cardboard, wood, and paper bags.

Self’s work frequently depicts religious themes, biblical scenes, and apocalyptic visions. His style is characterized by a raw, untrained aesthetic, featuring bold colors, distorted figures, and intricate patterns. He often incorporated text and numbers into his compositions, reflecting his personal interpretations of scripture and his own unique worldview.

Throughout his life, Self experienced mental health challenges, which significantly influenced his art. He lived and worked in relative isolation, largely outside of the established art world. His work gained wider recognition posthumously and is now included in the collections of several museums and galleries that focus on self-taught and visionary artists. He is considered a significant figure in the development and appreciation of Outsider Art.