It’s always fun to find new places that are not only unique but also have a special meaning behind them. We found a hidden treasure near Nowata, Oklahoma – Bowling Ball Yard Art – created by Chris Barbee in loving memory of his wife. Mrs. Barbee loved bowling balls and used them in her rose garden until she passed away in 1997. After her death, Mr. Barbee wanted to keep her memory alive, so he created his first piece of bowling ball yard art from her bowling balls. From there the projects continued and before Mr. Barbee knew it, he had a whole yard full of bowling ball art. The attraction is open to visitors and tour buses and is truly a unique experience.
Bowling Ball Yard Art is located 1 mile north and 1 mile east of Nowata on Road 021. Look for the signs to direct you.
Jillian Northrup/Flickr
The first project that Chris Barbee created was the fence. You’ll find all sorts of creative art along the fence line, like this OSU and state logo.
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And of course this OU one (Boomer Sooner!).
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The second project created was the Bowling Ball Alphabet.
Jillian Northrup/Flickr
There is even a cute bowling ball house. Make sure to sign the guest book inside the house.
Rex Brown/Flickr
Tour buses stop here and you’ll find visitors from all across the nation.
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Have you ever seen an American flag made out of bowling balls? Great job, Chris Barbee, aka “The Bowling Ball Man.”
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Check out this piece of art…a water well made from an assortment of colorful bowling balls.
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You can even view the Ten Commandments…bowling ball style.
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Bowling Ball Yard Art accepts donations and if you would like to donate any bowling balls, Mr. Barbee say,s, “kick ’em out in the yard - I’ll find ’em!!”
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For more information on Bowling Ball Yard Art, check out their website here.
Jillian Northrup/Flickr
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Rex Brown/Flickr
For more places to visit in the Sooner State, check out these 12 Unique Attractions in Oklahoma.
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