NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Nashville faced the loss of a significant site linked to rock and roll royalty when the once-renowned office of Col. Tom Parker, Elvis Presley’s famous manager, was demolished back in 2017. Yet, this story takes another twist as remnants of the iconic building have inspired new artistic endeavors and special homage to the King of Rock and Roll.
Artist Wayne Brezinka has transformed salvaged materials from the demolished house, using them to create a distinctive portrait of Elvis Presley. "If I really stop to think about it, not only is it a piece of art, but there's history embedded in the art piece itself," Brezinka explained following the recent scanning of his work at Chromatics, where he brings to life the essence of Elvis.
The Col. Tom Parker house, previously hailed as the headquarters of Elvis Presley Enterprises, was met with grief from the local community who were upset with its impending demolition. Brian Oxley, who had once operated a significant service company, became an advocate for preserving the building's legacy. "One of the most iconic buildings, the headquarters of Elvis Presley Enterprise, was gonna be torn down," Oxley recalled, expressing his resonates with many fans who shared their disappointment.
Before the demolition took place, Oxley salvaged materials from the house, dismantling it piece by piece to save as much as he could. The collected items, including bathroom tiles, wooden panels from where Elvis once slept, and other historical relics, became the foundational components of Brezinka’s artistic creation. Brezinka remarked, "He has a collection of carpet on the floor to tiles in the bathroom," emphasizing the everyday objects turned sacred by their connection to the legacies served within the walls.
Amongst the salvaged materials, Brezinka highlighted significant items, including wires and light switches from the Elvis fan club, which served as connective threads linking the pieces of art to Elvis's storied past. "There are wires from the original phone system at the fan club," he noted. Among the remnants, one could find wires embedded in the hair of Elvis portrayed within the portrait.
The artistic piece pays tribute not only to Presley’s legacy but also to the spirituality behind his life and music. Oxley conceptualized the artwork saying, "I want you to do Elvis, known as the king of rock and roll, throwing a crown to the ground. I'm not the king. There's only one king,' talking about God in heaven.” This sentiment encapsulates the depth of both the artwork and the homage to Elvis's ties to faith.
Now, the piece is heading to Oxley’s home after careful transport, demonstrating the connection of history embedded within both the art and the materials saved. Brezinka shared his reflections on this process, saying it feels reverent to hold and recreate items from history, noting, "It's almost reverent to hold these pieces... part of history-making." This phrase resonates with the heartstrings of many admirers and fans alike, reminding them of the impact and legacy Presley held.
The project aligns with Brian Oxley's broader goals; he’s currently producing the documentary titled in the Shadow of The King, which delves deep within Elvis Presley’s gospel recordings and devotion to faith. With connections so strongly rooted, the portrait crafted by Brezinka will likely find its place within this narrative, honoring both the man and the myth behind the legend.
This new artistic chapter springs from the ashes of lost landmarks, intertwining everyday materials with the fabric of music history. Many within the community still hold Elvis dear, and recognizing history through innovative art connects past to present, enriching the cultural soil from which future generations may draw inspiration.
Looking back at the demolition, the mixed emotions of loss and creativity shape how communities relate to cherished legacies. While the Col. Tom Parker house may no longer stand, its essence lives on through art and documentation.
Wayne Brezinka's portrait is more than just artistry; it's history, remembrance, and reverence for one of the most enduring figures of musical heritage. Those lucky enough to witness this remarkable piece will appreciate not only the artistic vision but the connection to Elvis's vibrant life and timeless influence.
Though the physical structure may be gone, the spirit of Elvis Presley continues to inspire, reminding us all, as Brezinka puts it, of the true 'King' and the faith he held dear. The community and fans can find solace, knowing art has the power to preserve, celebrate, and honor history.