As you may know, Laura and I took a brief trip to NYC in the early-mid part of October. While I could tell you about Pentecostal Wall Street prophets, Ground Zero situated conspiracy theorists, 11pm t-shirt weather, or masturbating homeless man, I wanted to instead call you attention to the photo on the right.

This is me standing on the roof of the Metropolitan Museum of Art overlooking Central Park. What is the shiny and colourful item behind me?

“Coloring Book” by Jeff Koons

Say what you will about postmodern art (which, apparently this is); this structure was certainly among one of the more memorable pieces I saw in NYC—among the Kandinsky, Picasso, Dali, Warhol… there is, of course, a the long list (MOMA = glory). Perhaps I like this piece because it is reminiscent of Kandinsky (one of my favourite artists).

Anyway, Laura and I had a great discussion over beers about the nature of art. I tried to explain why I liked it. She explained why she hated it. As we drank more beer, it became apparent that neither one of us would be convinced to change their position. We finished our beer, walked back to our bed, and got ready for another day of enjoying New York.

I wanted to write about Coloring Book because it captures my feelings about NYC: unexpected, colourful, messy, beautiful, flashy, possibly mocking the viewer, possibly striving for authenticity, stand apart and admire, or get close and find yourself in it.

Anyway, in her defence, Laura made a little art video too. It was shot at 6:45am. Check it out, I think you’ll appreciate it.

I like the part where I give up completely and got back to slamming down the coffee.