Instead she did something which small minds and small souls can never forgive…she dared to be different! —Elsa about Miss Helen


Over time Martins, known as “Miss Helen” by her neighboring villagers, was regarded with suspicion and derision. The physical demands of her artwork, arthritis, and old age all took a toll on her appearance and health; it was known that she did not take care of herself. She became increasingly reclusive and even avoided seeing people on the street. Her remaining friends claimed that she was intensely passionate – especially about her ideas for her creations. Her work continued but cost her physical and emotional hardship, until she lost her eyesight. In 1976, at the age of 78, Helen Martins took her own life by swallowing caustic soda. After her death, the Owl House fell into disrepair and some articles were removed.


MECCA


Mecca, located in Saudi Arabia, is considered the holiest city on earth by people of the Islamic faith. The Prophet Mohammed was born there and is believed to have received God’s message there. Every day, Muslims around the world turn and face Mecca to pray. At some point in their lives, all Muslims are expected to undertake the pilgrimage to Mecca.


In 1991, a group of individuals formed an organization, Friends of the Owl House, to restore and preserve the property. They brought Koos Malgas back to Nieu Bethesda to restore the Camel Yard, and he maintained the property until 1996. The Owl House Foundation then formed to manage the site. The Owl House is now a popular tourist attraction, and as a result, Nieu Bethesda has guesthouses, restaurants, coffee shops, and art galleries. Miss Helen’s creation – once an object of derision and embarrassment – is now the destination for over 13,000 visitors each year.


OWL HOUSE TOUR: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v= WOUSr9B_8-s&feature=related


MECCA AND THE HAJJ: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v= jM81wroj_MQ


UPSTAGE THE ROAD TO MECCA 5


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