The Poetics of Space

The Poetics of Space by Gaston Bachelard, although published in 1958, remains completely and utterly relevant to an artist's practice today. Read by architects and theorists alike, the book examines our relationship to spaces, particularly the home. Divided into sections such as "the attic", "the cellar", etc., the text is one that should be read by anyone who deals with space, place, or environments on a regular basis (arguably all of us). I read it years ago, and recently picked up my dusty copy - the first page alone got me all excited again.

Naked by the Window

I debated whether or not to write about this book which I recently read, for fear that it seemed too gossip-magazinesque. However, I think it is actually really valid in terms of an art text, although in a strange way. Naked by the Window: The Fatal Marriage of Carl Andre and Ana Mendieta by Robert Katz chronicles the events surrounding the death of Ana Mendieta (her fall/shove from the window of the apartment she shared with Carl Andre - possibly shoved by Andre himself). Mendieta's 1985 death caused a huge schism in the art-world, as collectors, gallerists, and artists seemed to take one side or the other. A court case was waged, and Mendieta's family and fans still mourn her death to this day. This wild tabloid-worthy story does not garner mention here due to the hype and celebrity, but it does deserve a reading, especially by anyone who has ever been, known, or loved an artist, and known the incredibly agonizing and manic life that often accompanies them. Also, the book had a chilling impact on my daily routine - knowing that there is still an imprint of her fall in SoHo.

Yoko Ono's Grapefruit

So I was given a very old, very beautiful copy of Yoko Ono's Grapefruit as a gift recently. I had previously been sneaking quick reads whenever I would see it over at my friends' houses, and I cannot be more excited that I now have my very own. It is unbelievably beautiful and poignant - and totally Fluxus. You know, she's more than just the wife of the former Beatle, but an extremely accomplished and amazing artist.

A few excerpts:

HAND PIECE
Sit in the garden.
Raise one hand.
Extend it until it reaches a cloud.
Have your friend ring a symbol.
Keep extending it until it goes out
of the stratosphere.
Have your friend put a flag out.
1963 Summer

BODY PIECE
Stand in the evening light until you
become transparent or until you fall
asleep.
1961 Summer

PAINTING TO HAMMER A NAIL
Hammer a nail in the center of a piece
of glass. Send each fragment to an
arbitrary address.
1962 Spring