Adios, Raoul
Contributed by Jack Butler
I’ve been putting off writing this, because I have not wanted to acknowledge the reality of Roberts’ passing. The passing of an era, a mentor, an artist, a friend. I opened a CAMERA magazine in 1968, January 1968 - No 1, to be
specific (I still have the issue) and my investigations and interest into photographic image manipulation from the teens and twenties was galvanized by the work of one Robert Heinecken. The idea of the found image was viable and contemporary! He gave credence to all my interests at the time. My feelings about Robert were validated eight years later when I got into the UCLA Art Dept. and was able to interact with him. His insight and intelligence about ideas and art making still motivate me in my own work and teaching. I can’t overstate his influence on my career.
I loved and respected him, his work and his amazing career. His contribution to contemporary art making can’t be emphasized enough. Roberts’ passing has left a hole in my and many other lives that won’t ever be filled. He was always a spiritual leader to anyone who worked with him, even when absent. I know he would shrug off all this adoration, but it’s true and must be said. I will conclude by saying thank you to the wonderful Joy Neimanas, for all
you went through and how well you handled it!
I’ll leave the story of the fully clothed shower…. naked in a red US Marine Corps silk boxing robe for later…
Adios Raoul!