June 11, 2007

Zach Augustine sent me Donny Miller's book Beautiful People with Beautiful Feelings. It changed my life. Donny Miller answers my questions.

I was given your book Beautiful People with Beautiful Feelings as a gift this year and I think it's the best coffee table book I own. And I own a shit load of art books. What's so special about your book?
I tried making a book that wasn't just a bunch of pretty pictures. Something with substance. Maybe that's why you like it. Oh yeah and it’s the best book ever made.

Do ugly people have beautiful feelings too?
All the people in the book are ugly. I feel this way, I’ve met plenty of beautiful people, but if they have an ugly soul, the physical is a moot point.

I read in an interview on your site you did that you "think in women." Which is funny as I "act in women." As a matter of fact after one too many wines I'll often times pull out your book and recite lines for an audience in an overtly feminine voice. Is that weird?
I want video of that. Doesn’t sound very weird.

Please tell me you have another book in you?
I am working on another book. Different than the last. I’m growing as an artist.

Myspace says you're in a relationship. Who's the lucky lady?
Angie. I am to be wed very soon.

The graphic images in the book. Were they created for the book or are they compiled from you art?
Those are my art pieces. I worked on art for the book, you know?

I am creating a headboard from artist's skate decks (Ryan McGinnis, Jeff Koons) and I am totally freaking out that you did one for Baker. Where can I get one, please?
Jeff Koons did a skateboard? He’s great. I love the hanging locomotive piece he recently proposed for LACMA. When you have enough money to hang a locomotive from a crane, then art is limitless. See, art isn’t limited by the mind, it’s limited by the money. Ah, but using the mind to get the money. Problem solved. You can order one from me. It’s the cover of the book. This is what it looks like.

Where can I see your art?
In the book, but I will be doing more soon and redoing my site. Here’s a public art piece I did. I’m doing many more of these public art pieces.

What will you be remembered for?
If I died right now, probably the book. But if I live and get all the things done that I’m doing, then I will be remembered as an artist who explored with unmatched commercial success film. An artist, who changed the way people saw themselves. An artist who stopped hunger and healed people with a magic spoon full of never ending macaroni and cheese. An artist who floated above the 10 freeway in Los Angeles and entertained those stuck in traffic jams. Basically, the greatest artist who ever lived. I already hold the title as the most handsome artist ever.

I'll be in LA this weekend. Where should I eat?
Hope you can check your email as it is Saturday. Vegan Glory on Beverly and Orlando. Get the Italian dressing.

Thank you, Bradford.