Bill Traylor was an American artist born in 1854 in Alabama. He is known for his unique style of painting, which often depicted scenes from his life as an African American man in the South. Traylor began creating art in his 80s, using found materials like cardboard and paint to express his experiences and observations. His work gained recognition in the 20th century, contributing to the outsider art movement. Traylor's paintings often feature vibrant colors and simple forms, capturing the essence of his memories and surroundings. Today, his art is celebrated in various museums, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum.