The Artist
Amos de Barros

Amos de Barros was born on August 25th, 1931, in Providence, Rhode Island, to Amos and Alice de Barros. Growing up in Oakland Beach, a beach town about 10 miles from Providence, Amos found inspiration in the arts from an early age.

At just four years old, Amos's passion for music became evident when he started creating rhythms using his mother's spoons, pots, and pans. Encouraged by his parents and older sister Barbara, Amos pursued formal drum lessons at the George Greer Drum Shop in Downtown Providence. Despite his training, he developed a unique style that would later lead him to join "The Tony Nicholas Group" and tour extensively in the 1950s.

In 1950, Amos enlisted in the US Air Force and served in Korea, participating in significant battles including the battle of Taegu. Upon returning home, Amos encountered the opportunity of a lifetime when Tony Nicholas invited him to join a professional drumming gig, a dream Amos couldn't refuse.

Leaving behind his love, Dottie O’Day, was a heart-wrenching decision, but Amos felt compelled to pursue his musical aspirations. Despite the challenges of life on the road, Amos found love again with Elaine Fowler, with whom he raised three sons after their meeting in Maine.

Transitioning from a life of music to one of Christian ministry, Amos enrolled in Zion Bible College, where his interest in theater arts flourished. A visit to Minneapolis led him to North Central Bible College, where he founded a theater group while working part-time as campus security.

Amos's commitment to serving the homeless brought him to New York City in 1987, where he became involved with Times Square Church and later worked at the New York City Rescue Mission. His dedication to helping others often led him to sacrifice personal comfort, exemplified by his selfless act of giving up his room in a crowded shelter to accommodate homeless men.

During his tenure at the Rescue Mission, Amos made significant changes to restore its integrity, reclaiming it as a place of sanctuary and hope for the marginalized.

Amos's artistic talents extended beyond music and theater to painting, with his vibrant, impressionistic flower paintings drawing comparisons to Van Gogh. Despite initially being unaware of Van Gogh's work beyond popular misconceptions, Amos later delved into the artist's life and incorporated his story into a musical production.

In 2014, a severe stroke left Amos with permanent physical impairments, ending his painting career. Despite this setback, Amos found solace in his faith, believing that God's work in him was far from over.

Now, at 92 years old, Amos reflects on a life filled with blessings and challenges, embracing each day with gratitude and optimism. While his days of painting may be behind him, Amos's legacy lives on through his art and his unwavering belief in the enduring power of faith and creativity.

Amos de Barros's original artworks remain available for sale, a testament to a life richly lived and a journey that continues to inspire others.