My dad represents what is right about America. Born to immigrant parents, he grew up poor in Miami, attended state college for a pittance, served in the Army, then started his climb up the professional mountain. He eventually started his own construction company, Florida Fill, and made a decent living until Florida’s whipsaw economy got the better of him. But it was this “failure” that exposed what I consider one of his great successes. As he shuttered his business, he faced a difficult choice: make his final payroll or tell all his people who’d been with him forever and who’d toiled to earn that check, sorry, but the till is empty (which it was). Though he had no legal obligation to do so, my father cashed in his own retirement to make that final payroll, leaving him with very little as he faced a dark and uncertain future. He searched his soul and found himself … in lieu of funding himself.
In my most recent site-specific installation, America’s Moral Dilemma, stacks of literary criticism text books invite us to spend some time pondering how our nation’s story shifted so drastically, to one of profit at any cost.
Just last week, the new regime at the EPA voted to relax clean water standards. This is not a liberal or conservative issue; dumping industrial poison into our drinking sources is a basic human health issue. I’m all for minimizing bureaucracy and maximizing profits, but let’s not commit suicide in the process. Back in the 80s, I was actually there, as part of the Wall Street guys selling his casino bonds, when our current president used every trick in the bankruptcy book to get out from under his bad business decisions. All of it was legal. But was it right? What would my dad do? What would you do?
On a lighter note, it’s been a busy week. In collaboration with my good friends at The New Tropic, my series, Meet Your Makers, debuted on PBS as a segment in the show Art Loft. This episode features my soul brother and art beast, Typoe. Check it out above and tell me what you think.
I also have a solo show opening tonite (March 9th) in Miami Beach. It features American flags cut to shreds, deconstructed and then reconstructed into beautiful new forms. This is my wish for our country – that we survive these dark times and come out the other side with an even brighter future.
My friend, the poet Aja Monet, recently said, “It is the duty of artists to make revolution irresistible.” I must admit I am angst-ridden trying to figure how to do this – to Find Myself AND Fund Myself simultaneously. To build bridges … and light a fire under others to do likewise. For starters, a percentage of my art sales this month will be donated to the ACLU and Anti-Defamation League. Hopefully, that still leaves money for me to enjoy the fruits of my labors.
While that alone is clearly not enough, I believe that’s what my dad would do.
Never cease to amaze me Stu! Amazing. You and Eric are lucky
Indeed we are, Mark!
Stu, your interview with Typoe was phenomenal! I loved the multi-media aspect incorporating your dialog, his art, scenes of you two in different settings and the background music. So well done! Also, another thought-provoking blog post! Kudos on all that you’re doing.
Right on, Dalia!!!
Wow Stu, thank you for sharing this lovely glimpse into the warm heart and generous character of our wonderful dad. As usual, your words evoke powerful emotions in me.
Your bro,
Eric
Love you, Eric!
Now I see where you and your brother get your spirit and generosity from. Lori would love the amazing work you are doing. I’m busy planning Lori Brener’s next fundraiser. ?Miriam
Your daughter’s light shines forever. I am always happy to donate a piece of art to her cause!
Miriam, and in you, we can see where Lori got her loving spirit and generosity! She is always remembered and cherished.
Your portrayal of your dad essentially giving the shirt off his back is a true accounting. Even with no shirt, he managed to care for others first! Proud to be his dear friend!
Big hug, Norman!
As always Stu, you inspire and entertain the rest of us with your art and stories. Your father ROCKS!
I loved reading this insightful story. Your father’s generosity shines through in you! Your interview with Typoe was inspirational & so well done – you are succeeding in lighting fires & building bridges. Thank you for the link to the interview & I wish you the best in all that you do!!
Thank you for sharing your Typoe interview. So enjoyable!
The art that floods this city, so ratifies my positive feelings about moving to Miami.
Looking forward to seeing you work this evening. Judith Loft
Stuart — your words and art always brighten my day. Thank you. Alden
Stu, your dad is truly the soul of America. Thanks for sharing.
Really great post! Hope all is well Stuart.
wow Stuart, this post was exceptionally inspiring…. I never met your father but I feel like I did.
Not a dry eye here as I admire you the person filled with love, hope and vision of a better future. A gift to all. Love you cuz!