Chickenman, known to many as Ernest Lee, is strongly associated with and lives in Columbia, South Carolina. He established a prominent presence there for many years, becoming a well-known local figure.
Ernest Lee's Home Base in Columbia, SC
Ernest Lee, affectionately dubbed "The Chicken Man," made Columbia, SC, his primary base of operations and residence. His deep roots in the community are evidenced by his unique approach to showcasing his art.
- Street Corner Gallery: For a significant period, Ernest Lee maintained an distinctive outdoor street corner gallery right in Columbia. This informal setup, often utilizing his van and trailer, allowed him to connect directly with the public and display his vibrant artwork.
- Community Recognition: His long-standing presence and unique artistic expression made him "well known" throughout the city, solidifying Columbia as his home and artistic hub.
- Exhibited Works: While primarily known for his street-side displays, his work has also gained wider recognition, being exhibited in prestigious venues such as:
- The South Carolina State Museum, reinforcing his connection to the state.
- The Martin Luther King, Jr. Library in Washington, DC, demonstrating the broader appeal of his art.
Ernest Lee's enduring legacy as "The Chicken Man" is inextricably linked to Columbia, South Carolina, where he brought art directly to the people from his unique outdoor gallery.
