ACCIDENTAL AFFINITIES
An important influence on David Schoffman’s development as a painter was the legendary Cuban conceptual artist, Micah Carpentier. Author of innumerable manifestoes, Carpentier is best known for two enduring masterpieces: “The Mind Is A Place Of Vague Things” and “The Song Of Degrees.”
As a young art student Schoffman served as an informal amanuensis to the reclusive master, answering mail, performing tasks around the studio and tending the garden. “Idleness and humility,” Carpentier would intone, “are strangers to me.”
Schoffman claims to have had a hand in conceiving “The Song Of Degrees.” He is lying.
Carpentier’s nephew has devoted his life to maintaining his uncle’s powerful legacy. He is the executor of his estate and the editor of his massive literary output.
He has a modest website where examples of “Degrees” can be seen.
(http://www.artmajeur.com/micahcarpentier/)
I miss Micah. He was a good and dear friend. I have posted above, one of my favorite photographs of him, playfully hiding behind his beautiful paper bags.
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