This project is not dead. More soon

Hey, this is an interesting idea but has a lot of obstacles, many of which Mario stated below/above. I'm most interested in figuring out what exactly would we expect the beacon to represent and its associations. For example, Mario stated that it would inspire "hope" in a time of "fear and despair." First, what do we mean by "fear and despair" in our current times- economically, politically, societally, environmentally, and/or militaristically? One could argue that politically and societally things have gotten better with the ousting of Bush and the inauguration of the Obama administration. Regarding our feeling of national/domestic safety, we also haven't had a war or another terrorist attack since 2001 and the small towns that Mario is referring to may not be the best candidates for such an attack. Therefore, I would argue that the "fear and despair" is most associated with the current catastrophically depressed economic climate that we are in with the lost jobs, foreclosures, etc and the precarious state of the environment.

But, if this is the case, does a beam of light really do much to relieve people's economic and/or environmental feelings of fear and despair? If so, how would it do that? It would have to be symbolic because, day to day, it doesn't really make a tangible impact on or improvement to people's lives. One could argue that this beacon of hope has ties to Christian spirituality (i.e. God) but do we really want it to take on such a strong religious bent? And, what else might the beam of light remind people of? I, for one, am reminded of Batman's call signal and those moving club lights that are projected into sky at night. We'd have to be really careful to avoid these associations because they take away from the intentions of the project.

I don't mean to be so skeptical (although that is probably my nature). In order for this proceed, I really think we need to develop the idea more conceptually. In theory, it sounds interesting but, in practicality, it may be wrought with a lot of pitfalls that need to be worked out and/or avoided.

more on THE BEACON ART PROJECT

I am happy to see Rob's objections based on the obvious logistical and political obstacles to such a project. But a project like this has so many merits for art and the common man. To have a art installation that moves form small town to town would be unlike anything ever done on this scale or with so much meaning behind it. The whole premise is daunting for sure but The Art World And THe American people, and when i say america people i don't mean the 10 percent that live in cosmopolitan areas or those lucky enough to live near cultured areas but i mean the masses that have never been allowed to experience what we all have taken for granted, and to see that their are some who believe that this sorry state of affairs is only tempaoaory.
The becaon(s) would have a strong central superstructure that includes a powerful spotlight , at least 35% solar powered. The installation would be easily transported and didactic included. We may have to go to this town before hand to describe the premise and impetus behind the work, perhaps having a website that allows for towns to apply for a month long installments. Any applicants that are excepted would go throw a thurogh scouting to find a fitting site for the beacon(s)


Immediate obstacles

Designing the beacon
placement
spotlight issues( permits )
townships educational speeches ( we would have to explain to the people why this important and why the shouldn't shoot at it)
funding
art world reaction( for this project or against it)
media and press ( during this time of distrust, hate and fear this project could be a brightside to public arts in america )

Initial discussions

After talking to Mario about the initial idea about this project, I felt I needed a way to discuss the merits/faults/reality for making it happen. I don't know if I'm sold on it yet myself and want to hear what others think about it. I hope this forum helps facilitate a great dialogue and idea generator in regards to the feasibility/rational for this endeavor.

THE BEACON ART PROJECT

To inspire and enlighten in a time of dispair and fear.