We are pleased to share this article about the influence of Alternative Spaces in 1970s Los Angeles by Jordan Karney Chaim. Founded at the height of the Conceptual ‘70s and LA Punk, Some Serious Business quickly became a producer of “firsts.” Pictured above is the invitation to SSB’s first performance ever in 1976 staged in producer Tony Bill’s unfinished basement screening room in Venice.
Read the article on Hyperallergic.com
From 1977–80, SSB presented close to 50 performances and events fostering an international conversation with wide-ranging creators—many at the earliest stages of their careers—including Laurie Anderson, Lynda Benglis, Bob and Bob, Glenn Branca, Ping Chong, Carla Bley, Lee Breuer, John Cage, Lucinda Childs, Guy de Cointet, Constance DeJong, Douglas Dunn, John Gibson, Phillip Glass, Deborah Hay, Jenny Holzer, Peter Ivers, Harry Kipper, Robert Kushner, Louise Lawler, Gary Lloyd, Robert Longo, Linda Montano, Hermann Nitsch, Nam June Paik, Steve Reich, Rachel Rosenthal, Carl Stone, T.R. Uthco, William Wegman, Lawrence Weiner, Peter Wiehl, and Robert Wilson. See SSB’s Legacy for a complete list of artists and presentations.
A nomadic “space,” SSB used the entire city of Los Angeles as a generative resource—partnering with established art and presenting organizations, but also producing performances on Venice Beach; in parking lots, hotel rooms, deserted skyscrapers, and derelict buildings; on broadcast television; even on Amtrak trains.
Artists have always been in the forefront of social and cultural innovation—and change. We trust creators to help lead the way into new imaginative realms and possibilities. The lessons of the 70s: process, patience, collaboration, no fixed outcomes, direct experience hold true. From tranquil residencies and intimate focused interludes and salons to exhibitions and culminating presentations of new performances, SSB’s intention and driving force continues to be the connection between people and art—ideas and peak experiences that have a trajectory and relevance now and into our collective future.