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little tippler in OP: I have very mixed feelings about this. To me, it's not art. It may have scientific, and even sociological value. I have seen loved ones die before my eyes and it is a tortuous and extremely distressing moment. I understand what the artist's idea may be. But to me, this is not the best way to convey it. This is too direct, and the shock value speaks louder than any message he may be intending to deliver.
Death is a private moment, and I don't see that it should be public or something to celebrate, or even dissect in an "artistic" way - perhaps that is of interest to medicine etc. Celebrating the life of someone who has passed is something entirely different.
Personally I would not visit this show...because I would not wish to validate it. But I would be curious. Every death is different.
We hide (and hide away from) death because we are scared of it. Because it reminds us of the fact that we will die too. Because it reshapes our lives constantly and we resist change. Because when someone we love dies, a part of our world and how we define it is gone...and sometimes it's impossible to start again.
I see no beauty in death...but I do not see it as undignified. I wanted to be there when my loved ones died. No matter how painful it was to think I would never speak to them or hold them or share with them again. It is an amazing thing though...the body seems so empty as life ebbs away, it's really terrifying to see. Also, it is in these times I am most aware that somewhere someone is also being born, and all the promise that holds.
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Sometimes I love you lil tip because you voice so clearly and gracefully what it is I feel.
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As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons...be cheerful; strive for happiness - Desiderata
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