History
Watson’s history is pending more information and photos.
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With grandmother 1955-6
With mother late 1950s
Late 1950s
Late 1950s
With one of two sisters
Early 1960s
With little brother
Late 1970s. Jackson, MS.
Early 1980s. Watson with his late niece
Watson moved from Jackson, MS to Memphis, TN in 1986. He attended one loose year at Memphis College of Art before dropping out. He helped renovate several homes during this time and his boss allowed him to squat in them while under construction.
In the late 1980s Watson was welcomed into the Helt’s home. Within a couple years the house was filled to the brim with hoarded items. When the Helts relocated to middle Tennessee Watson stayed behind to “guard” the house.
Jean Helt walking the cemetery with Watson. Early 1990s.
Early 1990s
2021. Watson’s priorities strictly revolve around making his work.
Watson working on a ceramic piece in the shop where he lived for some time in 2001
Antiquing mirrors for Garner Picture Framing 2016
Watson, in a hand-me-down shirt, and Garner working on some antique mirrors. Garner employed Watson a few hours a week. Garner has always been willing to help artists, young and old, in any way possible.
Watson’s reflection in antique mirror as he is prepared for his 2016 retrospective art show.
Photos by Matt Ducklo and Shane Rubano
Watson in his bed/creation station where he painted and collaged under this single light source. 2020. Photo by Emil Orth
C. W. Watson, Michael’s grandfather, pictured in a 1945 issue of LIFE Magazine. They misspelled his name. He is about to execute two ex-sailors, who murdered a sheriff.