Final answer:
Ellsworth Bumpy Johnson's life before fame involved pursuing music, experiencing poverty, and facing personal tragedies. His artwork was eventually preserved and donated to the Smithsonian.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before Ellsworth Bumpy Johnson became famous, his life was filled with various experiences and challenges. In his early years, Johnson was interested in arts and culture, particularly music. He enrolled at the Tuskegee Institute in 1933, where he pursued his passion for music.
In addition to his musical interests, Johnson also experienced poverty and limited resources during his childhood. His paintings, such as 'Street Musicians' and 'Sowing', depicted everyday life and emotions of African Americans in both urban and rural settings.
Later in life, Johnson faced personal tragedies, including the loss of his artwork and the death of his wife. He was also diagnosed with a debilitating mental illness, which led to his confinement in an institution for 23 years.
Despite the challenges he faced, Johnson's artwork was eventually recognized and preserved by the Harmon Foundation, who donated over 1,000 pieces to the Smithsonian.