There used to be a very interesting artist around this area named James Abbott who delighted in creating historical murals throughout eastern Grays Harbor County in the 1990s. Much of his work remains to this day, although the ravages of time are already starting to show on his handiwork. Such is the condition of outdoor painting.
Two of his most public works in our town can be seen alongside our main grocery store staffed by great people, Gordon's, and on the old Rhode's Grocery building, now a personal storage business.
Art is subjective, and some have called his work "downright spooky" or "creepy," while others have described his art as "fascinating" and "splendid."
Personally, I enjoyed watching him in the act of creating his work more than viewing the result of his labors. He wore a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses and sported a stereotypical artist's goatee, while making his act of painting a public performance. It brought to mind Bob Clampett's Beany and Cecil character, Go Man Van Gogh. He seemed to totally enjoy the attention as he painted the side of Gordon's.
I think I read Mr. Abbott's obituary within the last few years. More sooner than later these building owners across eastern Grays Harbor County (McCleary, Elma, Montesano) will have to decide whether to paint over his work or try to restore it.
Exactly what the TBTG acronym meant after his signature, I can't say for sure, except that I recall it was Christian in nature. Probably "Thanks Be To God."
Several of his images have already appeared in my phone photo series and I'll collect them here. Also some new images. In addition, I'm including three news articles about him from 1991-1998.
James Abbott, McCleary Muralist
