The Orange Show
historic place
The Orange Show, located in Houston, Harris County, is a unique historic place. It was conceived and built by Houston postman Jefferson Davis McKissack. He worked on this folk art environment single-handedly from 1956 until its opening in May 1979. McKissack created the Orange Show as an homage to the orange, which he believed was a pure form of energy. He promoted theories on health and longevity through good nutrition. The site is a labyrinthine, 3,000-square-foot outdoor installation, constructed from concrete, brick, steel, and found objects like gears and wagon wheels. It features bright colors and messages such as "EAT ORANGES AND LIVE." After McKissack's death in 1980, a non-profit foundation formed to preserve the site. The restored Orange Show reopened to the public in 1982. It is recognized as a significant example of outsider art and a visionary environment in the United States.