Who were the Outsider painters and how did they challenge the boundaries of mainstream art?

The Outsider Painters, also known as self-taught or folk artists, were individuals who created art outside the mainstream art world, often without formal training or recognition. These artists were not part of any art movements or schools and often worked in isolation, developing their unique styles and techniques. Their work was characterized by its rawness, spontaneity, and lack of traditional artistic rules.

The term 'outsider art' was first coined by art critic Roger Cardinal in 1972 and has since been used to describe a wide range of art, including works by mental patients, prisoners, and artists with disabilities.

The Outsider Painters challenged the boundaries of mainstream art by presenting a new and different perspective on what art could be. Their work was often dismissed by the art establishment as amateurish and lacking in technical skill, but it was embraced by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciated its authenticity and originality. The Outsider Painters paved the way for other non-traditional artists, such as graffiti artists and street performers, to gain acceptance in the art world.