My first time at Randyland was a complete accident. I was visiting the Mattress Factory Museum with my sister and on the way I noticed a large yellow building with a mural painted on the side (Randy's home). After visiting the museum, my sister was in a rush to go home but after a little arguing I convinced her that we needed to explore this colorful mystery house.
As we walked up to Randyland, there was Randy talking to two standoffish North Side punks about their band and how he shares a birthday with Mozart and that he thinks music is one of the most special things there is. Even these "too cool" guys couldn't help but smile. I have since been to Randyland several times and never fail to be enlightened and inspired upon leaving. Randyland itself is really just Randy's backyard, full of beautiful little pieces of art. The garden is set up in a way that every person who visits is able to see a unique beauty in what is there. It's hard to explain what it looks like because there is so much going on and it is always changing (as well as always free and always open!)
The best times are when Randy himself is there to talk to. Aside from being a brilliant artist, he is such a kind, happy, creative soul and he cannot help but radiate this and pass it along to everyone he speaks with. In fact, his business card is actually called a "Happy Card." The time I spoke to Randy with my sister he said to us, "I want to be like Andrew Carnegie was to the community, but instead of books I want to share dreams and ideas." This review might be more about Randy himself than Radyland but to me they are one in the same--each one would not exist without the other. Randyland is definitely worth paying a visit next time you are in the North Side or are feeling a little down on life! You certainly won't be disappointed.