Just learnt that Pat Steir passed away. I became a fan of her work many years ago. I think it was because of Chris Maybachs films ARTCITY. I had, at that time been in a mode of trying to get every piece of video on Brice Marden, as he was my favorite living artist. I found out about the Maybach films and eventually got it. From there it was learning about so many more artists, ones that I still mentally quote from all the times I have watched it. Her section was in there too, so I got to learn about her, at least from there. Soon after, thanks to our local library that had been known as the best in the country for many years, I was able to check out a few PS books and delve more into her work. When I decided to “remake” PAINTERS PAINTING, in my own way, she was one of the first people I reached out to for an interview. I remember that day so well as I had mistakenly added for an interview with Karen Wilkin the same day, two hours apart. Anyone that has done interviews knows that THAT is a bad idea. Well it’s funny how things work, she and I weren’t able to do our interview because she had a problem from leaving her personal book in a cab, and once that happened she was running around trying to stave off anything that might happen as a result. So I did get to spend some wonderful time in her studio, walking around and checking out the work to be, the smell of the turpentine and oil paint permeating the space. The size of such large paintings propped up on the wall, still glistening from the drying paint. Eventually her assistant says she’s not going to be able to make it. So I left with good conscience that I would return, but a part of me knew that wasn’t going to happen. Thankfully I did get to be in NYC for a few openings of different exhibitions of her paintings, that last one at Cheim And Read was quite spectacular imo. Especially the big rusted looking one. I think everyone in the room knew it was a nod to Richard Serra, and also done with the utmost of respect. Truly a fantastic painting. Thankfully at least I have this story to share. Better to share a nice ironic story aside from simply putting a picture up. She led a tremendous life and got to live it for a long time. Nothing to be saddened about here. It’s party time for Pat!
Photo from Pace Prints
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