Franklin Gaskin, better known as “Franco the Great,” is internationally known for his paintings on storefront metal gates across 125th Street in Harlem, USA. The major thoroughfare is even unofficially titled “Franco’s Blvd.”

However, Franco comes from extremely humble beginnings with a troubling start. When Franco was very young he suffered a severe head injury that left him unable to articulate properly, and as a result, he was treated like an outcast by his family and peers. Franco found solace in art and through patience and dedication was able to find his voice. From painting in Panama for $1.50 a week to relocating to NYC in the 50’s to traveling all over the world, his art has opened up countless doors. “I always feel that the world owes me nothing but opportunity,” he said. “All I needed was the opportunity to show what I could do.”

Franco shares shares part of his story along with some life advice.

[Second Camera: Patrice Waite   |   via @Salon]

248 W 125th Street Gate completed on May 15th, 2015.

World-renowned artist Franco The Great is painting a gate on 125th Street, his first one in over five years. The gate is located at 248 W 125th Street, across from the Apollo Theater.  The process is already underway and he will be painting on most days from 7 am – 10 am until completion.

Born in 1928, "Franco the Great" known as the "Picasso of Harlem" is internationally known for his painting on metal gates for storefronts across 125th street in Harlem, USA. The major thoroughfare is unofficially known as "Franco's Blvd."