I’m curious of what anyone thinks of my recent Op-Ed. It’s framed in a letter to another artist that I never met. He was arrested for his actions and he claims it was all for art. But for an artist of color the outcome would be far severe. Furthermore, struggling artists that filmed themselves squatting in all sorts of odd places isn’t exactly headline news. The letter’s intent was to inspire and heal more so than revolt and revenge. Please take a look, support and leave a comment. Inquiring mind want to know!
I read through your letter, and I also watched the documentary on Netflix. What stands out to me is the desire to repair something, not just critique it. That’s not always the tone in conversations about art and space.
The idea of artists living and working together in a place people already pass through every day is interesting. There’s something compelling about art being part of daily life rather than separated from it.
I’m curious what kind of response you’re hoping the letter sparks, especially from artists who are also trying to find stable footing right now.
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I appreciate the spirit of what you’re reaching for here. The idea that spaces built for consumption could become places for creation is a compelling inversion.
I’m curious how you imagine the transition actually happening in practice. Turning a concept like this into something sustainable for artists would be a fascinating challenge. Great documentary, by the way.
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Yes, exactly! I am fascinated on the public’s unconscience and conscience actions if fine art or commercial art was put in front of them. These issues are heavily discussed now cause art funds are dwindling. It’s an old issue of how to make the masses care for high art. I heard plenty art snobs that say you’re only worthy of it if you ‘get-it.’ Then you have the genius of art grad students who got funding of paying pedestrians to see the museum exhibits —-hahahahaha! Those who accept the cash rewards all said it was a great experience –as though the whole project was unethical in the first place. the grad student claims that it’s ‘quantifiable evidence’ that people like art. hahahahahaha. My mall commune covers this issue intentionally.
Well superficially, if the commune mall space was built, visual artists and writers can test if any of their ideas would stick. a goods pitch sticks with you forever: Softer Side of Sears, Just Do It, Got Milk, Even You Can Stop Forest Fires, etc. I’d imagine high art, usually seen in impromptu performances, spoken word, Fluxus, or even hallways adorn with sculptures, paintings, Digital art– the sky’s the limit. Providence Place Mall would be a living bazaar —lol a Bizarre Bazaar. it would test the limits and effectiveness of the artist’s intent. It would be a legacy great project— if the right people would buy into it.