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<\/a>This work by Paul Collins is part of the John W. & Betty Jane Barfield Exhibit.<\/p><\/div>That\u2019s because nearly every wall is covered with the John W. & Betty Jane Barfield Exhibit, featuring artwork by Paul Collins. Pieces inspired by people from all over the world give a glimpse into the different cultures reflected in the University\u2019s community.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe embrace diversity here at UT, and this exhibit complements that philosophy,\u201d said Marcie Ferguson, director of corporate relations, operations and initiatives, who organized the installation efforts for the collection.<\/p>\n
To understand the exhibit, you first have to understand John Barfield and Paul Collins.<\/p>\n
Barfield, the son of two field hands, was born in Tuscaloosa, Ala., before moving to Washington, Pa., and later Ypsilanti, Mich. In 1947, he began working as a custodian for the University of Michigan, later cleaning newly constructed houses on the side for additional income.<\/p>\n
After his side job became more lucrative than his full-time job, he quit his UM job and began the Barfield Cleaning Co. After several acquisitions and transitions, Barfield founded the Barfield Manufacturing Co., now called The Bartech Group, which he has since turned over to his son, Jon.<\/p>\n
<\/a>This sketch by Paul Collins also is featured in the John W. & Betty Jane Barfield Exhibit.<\/p><\/div>The staffing and human resources company based in Southfield, Mich., employs and manages the daily work assignments for more than 35,000 associates and more than $3 billion in contingent labor for major employers around the world.<\/p>\n
“The life story of John Barfield is inspiring to all,” said Chuck Lehnert, UT vice president for corporate relations. “And he always remembers to keep the important things first and in order: faith, family and friends.”<\/p>\n
In 1975 when Barfield was refurbishing one of his company\u2019s offices, he commissioned Collins to create some art for the space. <\/p>\n
Collins is a well-known artist from Grand Rapids, Mich., recognized for his portraits depicting all ages, races and cultures that define humanity. He is credited with more than 100 exhibitions around the world, including \u201cGreat Beautiful Black Women,\u201d recognizing history makers such as Harriet Tubman and Rosa Parks, and \u201cAmerica at Work,\u201d showcasing the American worker\u2019s contributions to the country and its success.<\/p>\n
Collins\u2019 mural of President Gerald R. Ford is on display in the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, and he also created the Ford Museum commemorative poster for the opening of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.<\/p>\n