Michael Alan

By Sean Maldjian, Contributor

Meet Michael Alan

Get ready to break the box and enter the world of Michael Alan - painter, performer, and master of the Living Installation. In this exclusive interview, Michael shares his thoughts on everything from NFTs to childhood books, and how his work with The Living Installation has changed his approach to art. Join us as we delve into the mind of this eclectic artist and explore his vision for a truly alien world in the heart of New York City.

Would you rather…

have two cats for feet, or two very small wheels for feet? Also please tell us why.

Obviously 2 cats for foots! I spend every day with 2 cats! Slayer and Jadda Cat! My cat toes scratch my cat nose and slurp up all the cheese from the refrigerator. My cat paws open doors and my cat foot tail would allow me to chase my feet! DUH!

Some questions with Michael Alan

Hey, it has been a while since we last had you on the blog. How have you been?

I go up and down just like everyone else. Amazed I'm still alive, painting in the moment. As the moment changes I'm amazed there is a new moment.

How has your work with The Living Instillation been going?

That work is the good old work. We go around NYC doing improv pranks and social critique work. Most of the old NY street performances are way over, besides Crackhead Barney and Loco Coco. I honestly don't see much. We go hard, lol, for the rush, for the experience. We meet so many people and so many yuppies, lol. Social critique this boxed-up life we are all in.

The matrix is on our heads. Scan and follow.

Has the project changed the way you approach your 2-D artwork?

Why sure it has! We've been drawing the performance while we perform, and collaging and modeling the work after. It's but a dream. Very lucky to be able to do this nonsense.

What movie has your favorite soundtrack?

I'm bad at favorites I'm eclectic.

How do you see NFT technology impacting working artists and the way they monazite their work?

Nfts revolutionize the way cut throat galleries work with artists. It's still being ironed out, but galleries have less power in the future. The creators are becoming empowered!

What is your favorite childhood book?

Mad Magazine

What is the state of the DIY art community in NYC post-shutdown?

It's been hard with Covid but we are doing the best we can to make a future as cool as old New York! Washington Square Park and Tompkins Square Park are the go-to spots to catch some cool stuff!

What is your favorite word/phrase?

Everything fades

If you were given an unlimited budget what would you do for a bigger iteration of Living Installation?

I would change NYC into a truly Alien world for a day. An art paradise that would expand everyone's mind instead of shopping for sneakers and $20 beers!

The Living Installation has been running for over 20 years with no budget. We do a random daily street performance to keep the old NYC energy going. Our all-out theater productions require a budget but no one gives it to us so we do it ourselves. We're doing the art for fart's sake out of sheer goodwill! We're so thankful to our supporters, collectors, fans, and friends. Every single person who supports even just by sharing to spread the word helps keep this project going!

Any final comments? (This is your electronic soapbox for one last answer.)

We are all living in a box. It us up to us to break the box.