The following item comes to you from NonsenseNYC, a weekly subscriber email described as "a discriminating resource for independent art, weird events, strange happenings, unique parties, and senseless culture in New York City." Wittily written by a guy named Jeff Stark -- who also writes film reviews -- and believes "...there is more to life in New York than getting drunk at slick new bars," Nonsense is a don't-miss read for me, though I have yet to attend one of the events.
I must tell you, however, even in a publication that leads a typical blurb with, "Expect: wild art in hidden places, Bedouin lounges, spontaneous performance, and a late night spectacle featuring arousing angels, kisses from strangers, lost innocence, instant fame, and public scandal by the Lady Circus," the following invitation stands out:
"NYC Chinatown Garbage Taxidermy Tour
You're invited on a free tour of the New York City Chinatown garbage. Did you know you could make art out of dead animals? Yes! I am going to show you how to collect dead animals from the garbage in Chinatown to make your own personal taxidermy. You will learn how to dig in the garbage for dead animals. You can make art out of these animals. It's really cool. I've found everything from sharks to frogs to plain old unidentifiable crap. Sometimes I find nothing interesting, but that is what makes it fun. You never know. Rain or shine.
My name is Nate Hill, a Brooklyn artist who makes new animals from dead animal parts. I sew together random animal parts to make a new animal that doesn't really exist. Many of the parts I have used over the years have come from Chinatown's garbage. I will be holding an 8x11 sign that reads Chinatown Tour.
I suggest wearing clothes you don't mind getting dirty. Long-sleeve shirts are also good to keep your arms clean. Also fully enclosed shoes are recommended. You may want to bring a plastic bag if you want to take a souvenir with you. You may also want to bring a flashlight, though I've never used one. I search by feel. The following items will be provided: latex gloves, first aid kit, wet wipes, and antibacterial gel.Are we going to dive in dumpsters? No sorry. We prefer not to get that dirty. We just dig our hands in trash containers. We're not going to be walking far. The tour consists of my favorite spots that are just within a few blocks of each other.
After the tour is finished, I invite you to drinks at the bar Home Sweet Home (a taxidermy themed bar).
Southeast Corner of Canal Street and Lafayette Street, Manhattan; Thursday, 9p; $free."
Is it real or prank art? Stark has an opinion, but I'm temporarily omitting it to avoid influencing you. You decide.
7 comments:
I think it is true as I remember seeing something about a guy who made composite animals. Interesting but only from a distance.
could we do this with people? more efficient recycling considering the push for conservation of the planet...
See, I knew this was horror movie territory...
Well, I used to work in chinatown, so this unfortunately sounds like it could very well be for real ;p
Having spent some time in Chinatown, I think it's true.
Those of you who said Real are Right (unless it's a truly multi-layered prank). Here's what Jeff Stark wrote:
"NOTE: Ladies and gentlemen of the press, we know you lift stories
from Nonsense all the time. That's fine. We're happy that you read
closely, and most of the people here want the attention. But we
actually went out of our way to warn this kid that you'd descend on him like pigeons poaching rice from one of those old Chinese ladies at the park. We told him that his event is so absurd that it actually sounds like a prank -- specifically the old San Francisco Cacophony prank where they roasted squab in Golden Gate park and told everyone they were eating, yep, street pigeons. He pointed us to the photos on
the web and said he was ready. So, have at the story. But if you
think about it, maybe send us a note and say thanks, or namedrop us in your story for once. We like to take the high road, but everyone likes a little nod every once in a while."
And here, for those who want to see it, is the website: http://stoproadkill.org/chinatowngarbagetour.html.
Now it's time to move on.
I live near Chinatown and now every time i walk by it certainly well NOT be the same.
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