Art may be in the eye of the beholder, but in some cases, it represents a person’s legacy. Living Rock Studios in Brownsville is an incredible museum that represents one man’s artistic talent and vision. You’ll definitely want to pay a visit to this special place:
You’ve seen art museums before…but have you ever visited a museum where the artist also built the building? Such is the case at Living Rock Studios, a building made of 800 tons of rock created by Howard B. Taylor.
Living Rock Studios/Facebook Find Living Rock Studios at 911 W. Bishop Way, Brownsville, OR 97327.
Howard B. Taylor was a surveyor by trade, but he became an artist after a series of health problems.
The Living Rock Studios/Facebook When he was 52 years old, Mr. Taylor suffered a heart attack and three strokes. During his recovery, he discovered that he enjoyed painting. From there, his artistic side really came out, and he began exploring different art forms in his spare time.
He created a set of seven living rock pictures, created from thin slices of rock. Each depicted a scene from the Bible, and lit from behind, each had a stained-glass effect that was simply beautiful.
The Living Rock Studios/Facebook
Looking for a way to display his living rock pictures, Howard came up with a vision for a special building that would display them in a way that the light would highlight their intricate beauty.
Caitey Andersen/Google
Over the next 10 years, Howard, his family, and a host of volunteers constructed an 800-ton, two-story rock museum.
Carlos Avilez/Google
The museum includes a large collection of pioneer artifacts, as well as Howard’s paintings, sculptures, and carvings. The building itself is a work of art.
Carlos Avilez/Google
Much of Howard’s art is about nature, and these huge rock trees inside are one example. The painted leaf awnings were created by his daughter.
Living Rock Studios/Facebook
Stroll through this museum to see many antiques brought to Oregon by pioneers.
Thomas Bickle/Google
Caitey Andersen/Google
Howard also created 125 bird paintings and 75 wood carvings, all of which you can see inside his rock studios. Howard B. Taylor passed away in 1996, but his legacy lives on.
The Living Rock Studios/Facebook
The Living Rock Studios is free to visit, though a $3 cash donation is appreciated. This quirky, unique museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m..
Caitey Andersen/Google
Check out Living Rock Studios’ website to learn more about this unique museum! Have you ever visited? If so, what was your favorite part of this incredible place?
Living Rock Studios/Facebook
Find Living Rock Studios at 911 W. Bishop Way, Brownsville, OR 97327.
The Living Rock Studios/Facebook
When he was 52 years old, Mr. Taylor suffered a heart attack and three strokes. During his recovery, he discovered that he enjoyed painting. From there, his artistic side really came out, and he began exploring different art forms in his spare time.
Caitey Andersen/Google
Carlos Avilez/Google
Thomas Bickle/Google
Oregon’s artists often leave legacies for others to enjoy. Check out this little dinosaur park that was created by artist E.V. Nelson.
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