Comments:

raymond - 2004-07-28 08:02:16
Director Hollister's remarks seemed more level-headed than most politicians make. He also seemed sincere. He concluded his talk with a warm send-off for my pal Brian and me as we take off with boxes of art for an exhibit in London.

The DTE representative spoke and said that he is "optimistic" that the partnership with Riverside will work out. Optimistic? Clearly, issues remain to be resolved.

An EMU representative indicated that the university will compete with empty-pocketed, self-supporting artists for studio space. EMU already dominates the gallery.

Project maps of the Water Street area indicate an attempt to preserve public access to the Huron River. What's left of Gilbert Park disappears. As we've seen so far, no attempt is made to preserve any structure of the past. It looks like a plywood-framed, brick-veneered bedroom community with easy access for driving to malls and mega-movie-complexes (and of course, Ann Arbor).

Brian and I were the hired (sic) help so were unable to tour the DTE building. I've skulked plenty around the alleys of town so did not need other parts of the walkabout. Since I have conflicts of interest in the Riverside project, I've not asked about what happens to any property tax DTE presently pays. I wonder.

Despite reservations about specific aspects of the projects, I found the meeting and tour were encouraging and uplifting for the arts and the city. Certainly the work of Ms. Goulet and company should be appreciated. Also, Governor Granholm's leadership and Director Hollister's organizational skill are admirable if not "cool."
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Laura - 2004-07-28 19:17:33
A show in London--wow! If I may say so, I hope you have a wonderful time! I very much liked the picture of the work by B. that you posted, not to mention the train-graffiti photos.
Thank you for the insider info on Hollister's remarks. EMU should back off--for Heaven's sake, they have 2 galleries already, Ford Gallery & the one in McKenny Union--that should do!
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raymond - 2004-07-29 10:24:25
Thanks, it should be a riot. Brian was invited to put up several pieces in the lobby at Riverside's Monday presentation. Several eyebrows were raised. We also presented less confrontational marionettes onstage.
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Laura - 2004-07-29 20:17:49
I really like it that local artists are taking the time to stop by & comment here--it's flattering, thanks raymond.
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