by marriage. One committee
member even submits himself
for consideration. After being
laid off from his job, he took up
painting a series of Vice Presidents because Presidents have
already been done. Even though
his paintings are awful, he thinks
he’s deserving and somehow is
seriously considered.
jor themes of the play — who is a
“real artist” and what is “art”?
“I’m not an expert, but if it looks
like it came from the dump, then
it ain’t art,” says one committee
member.
For some on the committee, art
is something that reaffirms their
beliefs. Others seek art that
soothes the soul. While some
“I think the important thing about the play being
set in a small town that’s isolated is that
they can do whatever they want.”
While suggesting possible artists, the Trash Man’s name comes
up. He’s an African-American
man confined to a wheelchair
and living on disability just outside town limits. He creates extraordinary sculptures depicting
religious subjects out of trash.
The Trash Man meets every single criteria for the grant; however, he also raises one of the maNew Jersey Stage
committee members think the
role of art is to provoke, others
believe art should simply match
their furniture.
“Some of them have deep emotional reasons for wanting what
they want and they’re just full
out going for it,” said Ekstrand.
“That’s what makes it a comedy. Everyone is just barrelling
ahead for whatever it is that they
January 2015
pg 100