Artist In Residence

A diamond in the rough I truly am. I was described as such recently when introduced to an art loving audience in Omaha. I've thought about that introduction a lot since then, realizing how I likely appear as such to a lot of people. In so many ways I left conventional thought behind years ago. I get along well with folks, but I think my sense of boundaries is more fluid than the norm. Even though there are good reasons to proceed with caution among strangers I take my sense of ease with me fully aware that I inhabit an insane world. I digress. I came here to put down some thoughts about the Bemis Carver Bank site. I was recently chosen as one of the first artists-in-residence for this groundbreaking project. Omaha has a long and sad history of racial segregation that seems to be steeped more in old ghosts than anything current to keep it as such. I stepped out into the city decades ago to see what really goes on and when I drive through my old neighborhoods it is striking how there has been no change at all. I don't know that I can do much about this but it makes sense to me to provide events at the Carver that would be of interest to people throughout the city. Benson has become a hotbed for musical activity in recent years and I am an active part of this scene. The Carver Bank site appears to have much potential for becoming a place for unique and interesting media events. Exhibiting my collage art and video, doing live collaborations with various artists and musicians on at least a monthly basis are some of my initial thoughts. This entry is a bit of a ramble but I'm appreciating this opportunity.