To the editors:
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N.A.M.E. raised a considerable amount of money from their benefit [Performance, February 12]. I am proud to have contributed my work to N.A.M.E. from the beginning of my career in 1977 until now. I have no idea why anyone would review a fund-raiser–cover it maybe, but it seems a bit strange to actually critique it, almost mean spirited. For the artists involved it constitutes a slap in the face for generosity toward a beloved institution. The only way many artists are able to raise money for specific causes is through art auctions or performances–hence their work becomes a kind of legal tender. This is the second benefit that has been reviewed by the Reader in recent months; the first was Maura Troester’s review of WAC-A-Go-Go [December 11]. In this case, this recent evening of performances framed a benefit for N.A.M.E. Gallery, part of their Valentine’s Day Auction and held in honor of N.A.M.E.’s 20-year anniversary. This was clearly stated on the announcement.
N. Francisco
