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“I have only to look at something, anything, and it can instantly give me an idea. Whether a face, an object, or an event, it can immediately suggest a shape to create, in painting, in photography, in sculpture…. It isn’t a document, it isn’ the direct impression of this object or this event, it is the result of this impression, which immediately gushes out.” — Man Ray; Interview with Pierre Bourgeade, Paris, 1972
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Yo! Drivel Starved Nation, gather round, there are stories to tell…

I have been out of the office the past two weeks–the first week to celebrate the beginning of my seventh decade, and last week? Well, I went fishin’…

There are two reasons people fish. One is to catch fish I suppose. The other, and perhaps more important, are the long stretches of nothingness, because nothing is more important at times, than nothing.

Don’t believe me? Then you know nothing too.

My plan was to spend a week in New York City, the largest and best stocked pond in the world for creative expression. Specifically, I went fishin’ for ideas.

I had arranged to spend the week in Manhattan with a friend, but at the last minute, I found myself in need of a hotel. Went to a coffee shop with WiFi and started surfing for a place to stay–and although I don’t make furniture anymore, I still consider myself a woodworker so the absolutely cheapest hotel was the only acceptable option. Found the following place in Brooklyn–$40 per night, here is a pic of the room:


I asked about an upgrade but had no freakin’ idea of what language the hotel clerk was speaking. Here is the view from the sole window which was missing both panes of glass–good thing it is summer…;


This room was going to work about as well as a Groz plane…

And imagine my surprise when the only art in the room was this picture;


I normally wouldn’t bother you with this image however it contained the only intact piece of glass in the entire hotel.

I have lots of stories to share, some discoveries, and will do so over the coming weeks. Needless to say, this view of Mt. Hood was a welcome relief–it was good to come home.



–John

PS: The images of the hotel and the street scene are actually cell phone pics from a couple of miniature sets (about 18″ square) from the exhibition; “Otherworldly: Optical Delusions and Small Realities” which runs through September 18th at the Museum of Arts and Design.

Sorry for the leg yank, it wouldn’t be drivel if it were true.
–John again