Last night I was talking with the Master contemporary artist Donald Baechler. Donald has a studio that works similar to Warhol's factory. Many of the past and present assistants in his studio are worthy and emerging contemporary artists in the field. Brian Belott, Lance de Los Reyes, Brendan Cass, Wes Lang and many others are all associated with Donald. I think this is what makes Donald a continuing vital presence in the contemporary art scene. Not only is his work tremendously influential, as is seen in the work of someone like Masaki Kawai, whose opening was last night at The Hole gallery at 312 Bowery, he is very physically present in the scene. This is something that you just don't see with other artists of his generation. It is clear that Donald cares about what is going on and is a guiding spirit in the background of it all. In other words, there is an indication that Donald is not smug or comfortable with the fact that he is well established. Meaning, as an artist he is continuing to stay in touch with current ideas as they relate to his own work. Very interesting indeed.
The influence he has had on so many contemporary artists is without question and the fact that he continues to make vital work is something all artists should strive for.
