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The work is never complete, which is a good thing.  It was a central theme in the work of artist Felix Gonzalez-Torres, and one we take with us and apply as writers, developers, producers, programmers.

– Felix Gonzalez-Torres

Here’s a “portrait” of Gonzalez-Torres’ partner, who happened to share my name.  After Ross Laycock’s death in 1991, Gonzalez-Torres built this installation.  The mound of candy weighs exactly 175lbs — what Laycock normally weighed when healthy.  Visitors are encouraged to take a piece of candy and eat it.  As they do, the installation begins to shrink, as Laycock’s body did from his battle with AIDS.  According to the Art Institute of Chicago, “Gonzalez-Torres stipulated that the pile should be continuously replenished, thus metaphorically granting perpetual life.”

“Portrait of Ross,” by Felix Gonzalez-Torres


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