survival research laboratories seem pretty impressive, though they definitely have that macho metal sculptor thing going on, which seems a little outdated to me. to me that shtick includes an ambition to create massive works out of metal, using mechanical knowledge and dangerous power tools. some celluloid figures who partly embody this attitude are indiana jones, dennis the mennis, macguiver. it's not totally all about men, either, because women can participate in it also. it's a certain stance taken on art and creation and it seems to rely on a community or brotherhood of artists that share the same values.

the head guy seemed really cocky. he talked about teaching amsterdam a lesson. he just seemed like he thought he had all the answers and that his art is the perfect antidote to the world's problem and if they don't get it then they're dumb. plus it seemed like their art had a lot to do with laughing at people's reactions to it, which is fine. i accept that there are artists whose role is to provoke in certain ways, but they're just so bro about it and it gets old after a while.

that said i would have totally loved to attend one of their shows, the performances seemed amazing and one-of-a-kind. i think it would rank up their with my most impressive memories. i would talk about it for years.