So, you may not realize that his image was developed from a piece in an art show in 1917. Marcel DuChamp, a French painter, sculptor and art critic, submitted an ordinary piece of plumbing to a show sponsored by the Society of Independent Artists in New York City. The work has been seen by many as the leading piece of avant-guard art of the 20th century.
DuChamp allegedly bought this ordinary piece of equipment and designated it a work of art. He called such items “Readymades.” When the show directors refused to display it, he retracted his exhibit, had it photographed by Steiglitz and quit the organization. The original R. Mutt disappeared, but the issue of what constitutes art continues.
My shot was taken in one of the Men’s bathrooms at the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach FL. Governor DeSantis has not gotten around to removing it as an object which could transform men into women or vice versa, in full disregard of its useful significance.
Bathrooms are bathrooms. And you can never be too carful in one, which is why they tell you where to stand and where to shoot. Women, because of anatomical differences do not have this problem. This blog post is therefore offered as a public health advisory, in addition to a note to promote art appreciation.
