“Go Orange. Be Strong” once exclaimed the artist behind today’s stop. The Big Orange Sculpture stands before us. It is a vibrant testament to the power of artistic vision. But more accurately the love for oranges.
Today, we explore the story behind this unique creation. It is a story of passion, dedication, and the transformative power of art. The Big Orange Sculpture wasn’t just built. It was willed into existence.
Our story begins with Jeff McKissack. He was a Houston postal worker with an unusual obsession. He loved oranges and their health benefits. McKissack believed oranges held the secret to a long and productive life.
In 1956, McKissack embarked on a remarkable journey. He decided to share his love for oranges with the world. He began constructing a monument to his favorite fruit. This became known as The Orange Show.
McKissack had no formal training in art or architecture. But that didn’t deter him. He gathered scrap materials. Lumber from trash piles, flea market finds and repurposed objects became his tools.
He single-handedly built a 3,000-square-foot complex. It was a maze-like environment. It included an oasis, a wishing well, a pond, a stage, a museum, and upper decks.
Everywhere you looked, oranges were celebrated. Mosaics proclaimed “Love Me Orange.” Dioramas featured mannequins promoting orange juice. Staircases, doorways, and stages formed an orange-themed fantasy world.
McKissack worked tirelessly until his death in 1980. His creation was more than just art. It was a personal testament to his beliefs.
After McKissack’s death, Marilyn Oshman stepped in. She formed the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art. Her aim was to preserve McKissack’s legacy. The Orange Show reopened to the public in 1982.
The Big Orange Sculpture represents this unique vision. It embodies the spirit of folk art. This is art created by artists without formal training.
The Orange Show has grown. It now includes Smither Park. It also has the Beer Can House. The organization supports visionary art in all its forms.
The Orange Show faced challenges over the years. Being an open-air structure it suffered from rust and biological growth. The lack of a foundation led to shifting ground and cracking walls.
Fortunately, the National Parks Service awarded a grant. This allowed for a two-year renovation. It stabilized the structure.
Today, the Big Orange Sculpture stands as a reminder. It reminds us that art can come from unexpected places. It can be created by anyone with a vision and the dedication to pursue it.
As you stand before the Big Orange Sculpture consider McKissack’s message. Embrace creativity. Appreciate the simple things and maybe have an orange.