I had a little time to spare on the trip back to Memphis today, so I took a detour up to Brownsville to check out Billy Tripp’s Mindfield, which I’d heard about from FearlessVK first, and then subsequently from other people saying how cool it was.
And indeed, it’s a pretty bizarre, quirky, amazing thing to behold. It’s a little like looking at a three-dimensional version of one of those surreal drawings in the Scrutineyes board game. There are so many visual references that hide at first but surface the longer you look. Granted, they are all either pretty general or pretty random-seeming to the average viewer, but to the artist, I’m sure everything in the sculpture means something. I like to imagine that every shape and item dangling from those steel beams is a trinket plucked from Tripp’s memories and dreams.
I was lucky enough to reach into the comment box and find a copy of Tripp’s self-published book for the taking. I’ve heard that it’s a tough read because it’s so huge and pretty rambly because it’s written in a stream-of-consciousness style. But I plan to give it a try. If it’s anything like the sculpture itself, if you just give it some time, the randomness of it recedes and what’s important starts to stand out pretty clearly.
Full photo set here.
That’s my hometown! I’m glad you appreciate it because most of the residents definitely do not. It’s not even a good idea to get my grandmother started on it. To her, it’s an eyesore and a big mess.
If I am not mistaken, Billy Tripp is the brother of the first preacher from our church that i remember, Brother Bob. Bro. Bob drove a yellow sports car. Also related to the Tripps of Tripp’s Country Hams? Anyway, this is pretty awesome and I want to go there.
Oh I am SOOO visiting there asap. Seriously. I can’t believe a small town would have something this cool. I don’t mean that in a derogatory way, I just mean I wouldn’t think “townsfolk” would be cool w/ it.
haha, that’s funny, i forgot i ever knew about this! when i saw your flickr pics, i was like “where is this awesome place??” yet apparently i’m the one who told you about it! i must be getting old.
@Megan
I can just imagine the tension among the townsfolk about it. Especially since it’s so goddamn pinko-commie-librul what with its love for teh gayz and people of color. Haha.
@Amanda
I hope upon hope that that’s the same Billy Tripp. Any time you want to make a daytrip, I’d be up for going again. I’m told there is a fantastic “hibachi” grill in town we should check out.
@Megan
Sounds like a lot of people aren’t cool with it, but hopefully it will be standing for a long long long time despite how the locals feel.
@fearlessvk
Well now I’m wondering if I’ve got my story straight. But I’m almost positive you’re the one who told me about it! I need to comb the archives. I want to say you suggested it when I was looking for ideas for my Tennessee road trip last year.
Yes, Bob Tripp, Methodist minister, is the brother of Billy Tripp. His other brother, Charlie, owns and operates Tripp Country Hams. If you’re visiting in Brownsville, a great place to eat is the Kreme Castle at West Main and Grand. Enjoy!