Our “Keep Austin Weird” blueprint is one many cities are trying to follow and with good reason. Our drive to support local business, artists and retain our “Texas Pride” is what is luring companies and their employees to live and work in an environment that cares about its residents.
Austinities love our slogan “Keep Austin Weird” and its has been ingrained in our DNA even being found in the glossary of terms of the city’s comprehensive plan from 4 years ago! The official document defines the word “strikingly odd” or “unusual.”
I wrote about Austin’s culture in my post on my blog but decided it would be fun to site some actual cases to give you a better understanding of what all the fuss is about! I’ll be posting a series of “Austin Weirdness” with some fun examples!
My first Austin Wierdism: “The Cathedral of Junk.”
Vince Hannemann is the man behind the Cathedral of Junk and is very unpretentious. He did not create his “Cathedral of Junk” for attention. His masterpiece is found sitting quietly behind his small suburban home and the local artists often refer to him as “a yardist”.
He estimates that 60 tons of junk inhabit his yard since he began collecting in his twenties in 1988. Where does he find all this junk? People bring it to him and he doesn’t just take anything. He has to like it..it has to fit into his theme.
The Cathedral appears small but once you enter, it magically expands because of the stairways and multiple levels….so much to discover!! There is a “Throne Room” with an impressive chair (hard telling what it is made of) made for Vince to sit and answer questions from his visitors.
A hollow framework stands proudly utilizing lawnmower wheels, car bumpers, kitchen utensils, ladders, cables, you name it some of it even unrecognizable but it’s his cathedral, made the way he sees fit at a particular time (its constantly changing). It’s his creation with a story to be told.
Vince has a job during the day but when he is off he makes time to show visitors his design. I find it humorous that he has hosted weddings, CD debut parties, bachelor parties and is a popular destination for tour groups of school age kids and senior citizens! It’s fun, it’s artsy and creative..what’s not to love? There you have it folks…..It’s an Austin Weirdism!!
As always, Austin news, events and flavors are brought to you as a courtesy by Dorie Dillard of Coldwell Banker United; your NW Austin Real Estate Consultant.
I am a recognized professional in NW Austin real estate. I’m a good listener and act, not react to your needs. I have systems in place, references at hand and proven solutions to getting your home sold. Reach out to me at 512-346-1799 or email at dillard@reloaustin.com for an insightful conversation about the marketability of your home. I offer hands-on Professional guidance for all your real estate needs.
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