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This is for all of those that are interested in making the trek to Marfa Texas for Dan Cameron's Show, "The World According to New Orleans " that features Noel Rockmore and many other New Orleans artist.
#1) Who will be attending this Show?
I asked that to several folks and the answer is that we just don't know? There are 2400 folks in Marfa Texas and since we arrive late on Monday March 14th, 2011, we will have several days to talk it up. Perhaps some folks from NOLA will make the trek, Artworld happening lovers, ranchers and maybe Rockmore fans!
#2) Why Marfa Texas?
From what I understand, Donald Judd, the renowned minimalist artist, moved to Marfa from New York City. Judd's vision was to house large collections of individual artists' work on display, as a sort of anti-museum. Since Donald Judd's death in 1994, two foundations have been working to maintain his legacy: the Chinati Foundation and Judd Foundation. Every year The Chinati Foundation holds an Open House event in October where thousands of artists, collectors, and enthusiasts come from around the world to visit Marfa's art. As a result, new gallery spaces have opened in the downtown area including a multi-functional art space called Ballroom Marfa. We are trying hard to help them draw a crowd outside of the October event!
#3) How did Rockmore get involved?
Dan Cameron is a well respected curator in New Orleans (Prospect l & ll) and New York City (New Museum). Marfa, Texas is known in the Art world as a place where great art is recognized outside of the major museums and cities. Dan Cameron felt that this would be a great first step in getting Rockmore and New Orleans into the Real Artworld consciousness. Dan Cameron was the first curator to make time for us after many, many rejections from others. You just never forget when someone actually listens to you and believes in your dream!
#4) How do you travel to Marfa Texas?
Well, the closest major airport is El Paso Texas which is a 3 hour drive. Southwest has flights there under $200 as well as Midland, Texas (3.5 hours) and there is San Antonio (6.5 hours). Marfa is just way out there away from civilization as most of us know it. We will be making the 14 hour drive from New Orleans with our moms in tow! Tee an I got married 25 years ago on an out island of the Bahamas called Exuma so for us it is a perfect setting and adventure for our 25th Anniversary.
#5) Where do I stay in Marfa Texas?
This is a tricky one as well. If you are used to national chains or 4 Star hotels, forget it, this is not for you. It seems there are 3 or 4 small and unique hotels and the rest are guest houses and small apartments that the locals are used to renting out for the big festival in October. This Marfa Chamber of Commerce link has all the available spots we were told of. The closest chain hotels seem to be 1/2 hour away in Alpine, Texas. The Hotel Paisano near the Ballroom Marfa seems to be the big one. We will be staying in an apartment near this one because we need first floor living for Rich's mom.
#6) What will we do in Marfa besides the Show?
We will network, promote and discover all the little bars, shops and art that Marfa has to offer. We will celebrate our 25th Anniversary on Wednesday March 16th with whomever we can find. Whenever we ask about the main attraction, The Chianti Museum, Donald Judd's vision, we hear the same words, it's a lot of walking! We plan on doing that on Thursday March 17th. Let's face it, it is an adventure into the unknown world of a tiny art Mecca that we will soon discover.... maybe with you!
We are so happy that you are interested in the Marfa Ballroom Show!
Let us know if you plan to attend.
We will keep you posted,
Rich & Tee & Shirley Marvin
The Noel Rockmore Project Team - email link
The New Website - www.rockmore.org | 
