From NKAA, Notable Kentucky African Americans Database (main entry)

Finn, Marvin

(born: September 10, 1917  -  died: January 30, 2007) 

Marvin Finn was an internationally known urban folk artist who lived in Louisville, KY. He began making toys as a child in Clio, AL, where he lived with his family, including 12 siblings. After coming to Kentucky in 1940, he worked at various jobs, carving toys as time allowed. After his wife died in 1966, he began making toys full-time. His work was highlighted in 1985 when the Kentucky Arts and Crafts Gallery opened in Louisville. There are numerous newspaper articles that mention Finn's work being shown in Louisville galleries.

Marvin Finn died in Louisville, KY, and is buried in the Louisville Cemetery. He was the son of Samuel and Kate Finn.

For more see Marvin Finn in Folk Artists Biographical Index, 1st ed., edited by G. H. Meyer; P. Burba, "Fans flocked to his work; artist Marvin Finn dies," Louisville Courier-Journal, 01/31/2007, News section, p. 1B.

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Item Relations

Cited in this Entry

NKAA Source: Folk artists biographical index
NKAA Source: Courier-Journal [Louisville] (newspaper)

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Cite This NKAA Entry:

“Finn, Marvin,” Notable Kentucky African Americans Database, accessed July 26, 2024, https://nkaa.uky.edu/nkaa/index.php/items/show/76.

Last modified: 2023-02-13 19:18:58