On Jan 07 2005, at 09:27, Alan Bowman wrote:
Allen Bukoff has asked me to forward this to all. I request that you all
read it and give it just consideration.
Well, I've given it just consideration, but I don't consider it just.
I can only imagine their replies (if any are proffered).
We could each make a list of their names and sum up each of their responses in single sentences.
Andersen: "'bout time!"
Patterson: "Damn, and I just got my computer..."
Friedman: (...well...Ken, bless him, probably couldn't answer in a single sentence...)
...and we could find Allen's reliance on the elder's stamp of approval a bit puzzling. I've never really thought of any of us to be Fluxus artists - just Fluxus inspired artists. It reminds me of all of the folks who still call themselves "classical" composers nowadays - they look damn good for their age!
...too, I think it's a bit disingenuous to suggest that the early generation have given up on Fluxus. As a matter of fact, it could be argued that Fluxus is one of the few links that still keep them in the spotlight.
I think the real reason for Allen's departure can be said in one touching and significant word: "Emily."
Though under a totally different framework, I felt somewhat the same way three years ago when I left the list. Weeks before that time, there was seemingly uninterrupted bickering about Fluxus one-upmanship - mostly motivated by a sixty year old man who took great delight in agitation.
At various times when it reached a fever pitch, I unsubscribed from this list. Sometimes weeks would go by before it cooled down to something representing reasonableness. I'd come back thinking all was settled...and then, all hell would break loose again. It seemed that the only person
who BOTH kept her wits and continued engaging us creatively was Petal. When she died, I felt a HUGE part of this list went with her and, so, I decided to leave.
So, I think Allen has lost a supportive friend and we need to consider his feelings right now. I think that he'll be able to notice later that he can continue his work - staying true to his ideals - without looking for recognition from this small batch of elders. I wouldn't be surprised if three years from now he visits us once again - realizing that he can't live without his Fluxus ideals.
Pointing into the sky, let's not confuse the finger with the moon.
best to all,
rod
RANDOM RODIO: (often) rodcasting at: http://rodcast.dyndns.org:8000/playlist.pls
"you won't like all of it"
