The following letter was used for the background of my website. It was sent to a professor and was meant to tell them that I deserved more credit for the work I did and better treatment from the people who were supposedly teaching me. I never expected a response because I had learned by then that it is very difficult to cure a person of their prejudices. But it did make me feel good to send the letter. At some level she might have understood, and whether she did or not – because I am not responsible for other people’s lack of awareness and self denial – I understood.

I am not a difficult person and I do not wish difficulties upon myself, but I do feel that I, like others, am subject to negative discrimination from outside because of my difference, but especially, when I pay an institution to teach me, I should certainly not have to suffer from discrimination from the people whom I have paid to teach me.

Dear Status Quo,

A while ago I asked you "What's your problem with me?"

I was surprised and delighted when you responded. I wanted to thank you. When people are more than what they appear to be it screws around with the way things should comfortably be. It threatens people who have struggled to maintain their illusion of normalcy.

"Society"=illusion of normalcy

"Society" exists only as a conceptual tool that may further the artistic agenda. Too much concern with opinion makes work reactionary and cynical. So, even though I have found our engagements constructive, I fear this letter should be our last communication.

I wish you the best of luck.

Yours truly,

A Pragmatic Artist