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OUR FRIEND JONAS MEKAS Dec.24, 1922—Jan 23, 2019

OUR FRIEND JONAS MEKAS Dec.24, 1922—Jan 23, 2019

“In a meadow full of flowers, you cannot walk through and breathe those smells and see all those colors and remain angry. We have to support the beauty, the poetry, of life.” ~Jonas Mekas

“As a film-maker and a poet, I feel it’s my duty to be an eye and an antenna to what’s happening around me. I always felt a solidarity with those who are desperate and confused and misused and are seeking a way out of it.” ~Jonas Mekas

“Jonas has achieved extraordinary things and he will leave us as an example of radical optimism and honesty.” —Jefferson Hack

This pic (at the top) is from the night of the Anthology Benefit Auction, March 2nd 2017. Jonas’ life’s work was funneled through Anthology Film Archives— and this was a landmark night for Anthology— this was the fundraiser that set off the changes for their expansion.

Any donations in Jonas’ honor are welcomed at Anthology Expansion Project:

http://anthologyfilmarchives.org/

Pictured, JMS, Jonas, Benn Northover.
(Photo credit: JIM JOE)

“Jonas brought such joy into every room and every situation he entered. With wit and smarts and immense curiosity, and with his love of life and art—his influence continues in the hearts and practices of those who knew and loved him. Jonas lived his life fully and energetically with every breath and action. He smiled and laughed a lot.

In the words of Patti Smith: Jonas Mekas, we salute you!! With immense love and gratitude we send you off on your journey.

with Love, Michael”

NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 02: Musician Michael Stipe and filmmaker Jonas Mekas attends The Anthology Film Archives Benefit and Auction on March 2, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for Anthology Film Archives)