RichArt's Art Yard

Richard Tracy considers his property his workshop. Christine & Eric Mahler on Flickr (Creative Commons)

The outside of his house is a sight to see in itself. Christine & Eric Mahler on Flickr (Creative Commons)

You can visit Richard Tracy's art yard for free but he will only give you five minutes of his time. For a small donation of $5 however, he will give you 55 minutes. Christine & Eric Mahler on Flickr (Creative Commons)

Signs are decoratively placed all over the property. Christine & Eric Mahler on Flickr (Creative Commons)

Also situated in Tracy's yard are practical artistic creations such as tables, chairs and even eating utensils. Christine & Eric Mahler on Flickr (Creative Commons)

What could be thought of as random or ambiguous signs are in fact telling of something that RichArt is trying to express. http://www.flickr.com/photos/nichephoto/42... (Creative Commons)

March 2023

March 2023 :( Qlyss (Atlas Obscura User)

March 2023

Outsider artist and retired art instructor Richard Tracy, also known as RichArt, began working on transforming his property into an outlet of his artistic expression since 1985. Now anyone can visit his house in Centralia, Washington and see what he calls “The Art Yard”.

The materials RichArt uses are far from biodegradable though they make for some interesting decorations. Styrofoam, reclaimed packaging material, and found objects make up the entirety of his creations. Richard Tracy carves, sculpts, and forms this material into figures such as animals and faces. There are also an amalgam of utilitarian objects that he has created such as tables and seats.

The pinnacle of his work is what he calls his “confessional”, a hideaway in which he can sit and look over the world around him. As a well-educated individual and dedicated artist, Richard Tracy gives advice and lessons to aspiring artists and encourages them to follow their unique creative compass.

Obscura Day location: April 9, 2011.

Update: Sept. 2013 - The house was recently sold. As of 2013, it was in the process of being torn down.