Here’s a fine example of human ingenuity. If you give someone enough time and resources they’ll come up with something impressive. Nitt Witt Ridge is the name given to a ramshackle piece of house art in Cambria, California. It was the home of one restless creative called Arthur “Art” Harold Beal (he died in 1992, aged 96).
Art, also known as Der Tinkerpaw or Captain Nitt Witt, wanted a castle, but didn’t have any money, so he built it from whatever he found lying around. He used obvious items such as wood from the trees surrounding his home and shells, but also included other people’s discarded rubbish: beer cans, car rims and old stoves all made it into the final piece.
Art landscaped the area on the hillside using nothing but a pick, a shovel and an unrelenting creative passion. To many Art was a Grade-A nut-job, but if you ask me, they’re the best type of nut-job to have around.
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Over a 50 year period he built a 2.5 acre garbage empire that now stands as a monument for all to enjoy. After Art’s death the property was taken over by a new owner – Mike O’Malley – who has returned Nitt Witt Ridge to its former glory following the looters that descended after Art’s death.
You can book a tour if you’re in the area and fancy an odd experience. Here are some more pictures, if you live too far away to make the trip:
What a legend. More architectural stuff here…
