How do you define yourselves and your work?
J: Labels are important mostly for bottles of wine...

And their work?

C: We borrow space and create gentle disturbances for a few days. We inherit everything that is inherent in the space to become part of the work of art. All our projects are like fabulous expeditions. The story of each project is unique. Our projects have no precedent. And so . . .
J: . . . the hardest part of each project is to obtain the permits. Afterward, it's pleasure.

But isn't the concept the most difficult part?
J: No, the concept is easy. Any idiot can have a good idea. What is hard is to do it.

On logistical concerns during the long permitting process:

C: They are worried where people will sleep. We try to explain, it is not a rock concert. It is a work of art, and our public is different. They imagine people bringing tents. But art collectors don't do that. They will come from Aspen. They will go back to Aspen.
(emphasis mine)

They fund their own works, taking no outside money - mostly by selling the concept drawings. So far - the planning of "Over the River" has consumed $2.5M, and they have no permits yet.

And the final cost of "Over the River" will be?
C: Ah, that is another story.
J: It will cost what it will cost.

¶ 11/04/2006