guest post by John Law
photo by J. A. Ellingson
We lost one of our very best. Tom Kennedy (1960-2009) drowned at Ocean Beach on Sunday, April 12th at 2PM. Tom was an artist, activist, teacher, prankster – a strong friend, bright spirit and true inspiration to each and every of the thousands of people he touched through his powerful and loving art and his huge and giving heart. I first met Tom at Burning Man 94 when he came out from Texas with his amazing art car “Ripper the Friendly Shark”, forever raising the bar at that event for creativity and originality in personal expression. I was dumbfounded by the whimsical nature, bold concept and execution of the piece. But more importantly, I was floored by Tom’s unmitigated joy at just being there, alive and creating the world around him.
photo by unknown
photo by J. A. Ellingson
photo by J. A. Ellingson
He went on, often in collaboration, sometimes alone, to create many of the most engaging and whimsical art cars you would find anywhere in the world. Tom was one of the kindest and sweetest men I have known. His big, muscular presence was that of a gentle giant, a protector and a gentleman. Tom’s sense of fairness and justice was as powerful as his creative urges. He was no push over, though. His work as an art provocateur and activist was tough, funny as hell and very “in-your-face” for those he saw as oppressors and forces of evil in the world. Greedy businessmen, slimy politicians and the like were the hapless targets of his art wrath. Along with his wonderful wife and partner Haideen Anderson and a cast of dozens in the political satire group Missile Dick Chicks, Tom stuck it to the high and mighty, often at personal risk. His courage and convictions were never in question. I saw him arrested in NYC for the 04 Republican Convention – an event that cost him greatly. This indignity only fired his passion to confront the injustices he saw and to mock and indict those responsible. Tom was generous, selfless and productive in ways that lesser men could only stand in awe of. He helped an untold number of aspiring artists with his powerful presence, practical fabrication knowledge and unique aesthetic. He did what the very best always do – he gave it away.
photo by M2
photo by Eddie Codel
photo by Barbara Traub
I spoke with Tom’s room mate Chris de Monterey and was told the basic facts regarding how this tragedy occurred. Tom and his friend Mike Tackaberry were in the surf about waist deep at Ocean Beach (stairway 24 – just south of the Cliff House) and were knocked over by large waves and swept out to sea by a very strong rip-tide. Both strong swimmers, they fought to swim back to shore. Mike turned back to help Tom he saw he needed assistance. He was able to bring Tom to the beach where he attempted CPR. EMT’s arrived and took over, eventually transporting Tom to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Here’s Ben Cohen of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream giving a great endorsement of Tom.
A couple of videos of Tom Kennedy on Chuck Cirino’s Weird TV.
“Burning Man 2002 – Tom Kennedy takes a break from dismantling the Whale” — photo by Leo Nash
photo by Belinda
photo by Jon Alloway
video by Caution Mike
photo by Jen Lum
photo by Ken Duffy
More Coverage:
- Time
See Previously: Topsy-Turvy Bus Tours US Questioning Budget Priorities
UPDATE 1: Tom’s website has been updated regrading his passing. Plans are being made for a memorials around the country.
UPDATE 2: There are two email addresses for all things related to remembering Tom and submitting stories, images and condolence notes, plus an email specially for helping with the celebrations of his life across the US.
Pat Kennedy, Tom’s mom, is collecting stories and pictures for a work of art she is making in Tom’s memory. If you have something you want to write, or have written, or an image or a condolence note you can email pictsandstories@tomkennedyart.com to help on this grand snapshot of the man , that so many have been enhanced by.
If you have anything else from ways you want to help and be part of the upcoming celebrations in Oakland, Portland, Minneapolis, Houston, or New York (or even elsewhere) email to everythingelse@tomkennedyart.com.
UPDATE 3: Here are some photos of the Tom Kennedy memorial in San Francisco.
Here Are A Few Related Posts You Might Enjoy:
- Tom Kennedy Art Auction to Benefit the Ripper Journey Foundation in Memory of Tom Kennedy
- Tom Kennedy Memorial, A Celebration of Life
- Improv Everywhere Launches Urban Prankster
- Photos: Tom Kennedy Art Auction
- The Doggies Say Goodbye to Harold Bachman
{ 147 comments… read them below or add one }
The zen master of the artcar world has passed.
I am stunned, saddened and humbled. Tom Kennedy was my friend, a
guide through many zones and and a colleague through many an
adventure, an artist, artcar pilot, caco fellow traveler, renaissance
man and prankster of the first order.
As Tom used to say, things happen when you’re out there… I’m glad I
got the chance to be out there with him when I could. I will miss
him dearly.
-Victor
Godspeed Tom Kennedy
I am so horribly sad to hear this. I adored Tom, this is a serious loss for everyone, for the world, poor Heydeen, this is just awful.
Tom was one of the founders of the art car movement. I have spent many hours as a passenger on his ride through life.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/10111/3437986077/
oh my god. I am so shocked. Prayers out to Haideen and all others.
As far as I heard Mike tell it, he started to swim back to shore, but went back farther out for Tom when he needed help. He fought hard and long to get Tom back.
Tom and Mike Tackaberry, dear friends, were body surfing the waves by the windmill near Cliff House when a riptide took them both out. It took them 100 yards or so further out, it churned them; they each swallowed a lot of water. Mike said there were 2-5 second intervals between waves, with no chance to catch your breath. Tom fought it. Mike told the man with the finfetish to use his fins… Mike fought the tide and the waves for a long time to bring Tom (at first conscious, and then not) to shore. After he finally got them there, Mike gave him CPR. The EMTs were there 2 minutes later. An older man who had called 911 told Mike a few times that he saw it all, and Mike did everything he could have done. (I’m so glad a witness told him that.) Mike could have died too, but wouldn’t let Tom go…. He loved Tom. This is so, so sad. A tragedy amongst dear friends.
Truly sad.
Reminds me of the quote.
“Expect it when you least expect it”.
In other words live every day as if it is your last. One of these days, it will be.
tragedy reminds us to live well. be kind. love eachother. i’m sorry it takes the death of a luminary to see the darkness. we live among greatness. we are blessed.
I saw a flatbed truck decked out as a motor yacht cross my windscreen, it was trolling a five gallon gas can behind it a rope. Then I saw the huge silver shark chasing the lure emerge from its dusty wake. I was transfixed at 80 mph.
I once rode on top of his whale during a graceful dance with a Spanish galleon. Who gives his vision such flesh? Great men do.
Forever warm and welcoming, my friend, Tom
Tom was truly a great man. I honestly think that he was the most genuinely happy human that I’ve ever met. Welding at 3am at the box shop? Smiling. Painting in the dark? Smiling. Eating Tony’s Cippinio all covered in sause? Smiling. Nothing could ever dim Tom’s optimism. And he truly lived every day like it was his last.
You will be sorely missed Tom Kennedy. But your life’s work – both the physical things that you made and the emotional lives that you influenced – will last forever.
Many words and none
I can not stop crying –
one of my favorite men ever
I love you Tom
Goodbye Tom, thank you for everything you gave, all your infectious energy, creativity and revolutionary zeal. You are loved.
While I am sad that Tom is no longer with
us, I know that what ever place we go to after our time
here, Tom is there now, and that place is a richer and fuller
place now that he is there. I will worry about Heydean, Tom
was the love of her life, they had that wonderful thing,
they loved each other. That he is so suddenly gone forever…..
I can’t even begin to to grasp the loss and grief she is dealing
with now.
sad and tearful
belinda
Tom was the reason I found out about Burning Man in the first place. Back in 1994, when I was an angry, bald Houston punk-rock chick, I saw some tiny florescent flyers at the Sound Exchange music store. It was Tom and friends, who were trying to put together a caravan to go to the event together. I picked one up in hopes of putting together the funds to go to the event that year, but that didn’t happen. About a month later, I was hanging out on Westheimer Blvd., indulging in some outlandish daytime acid trip, when I saw Tom and Ripper the Friendly Shark roll back into town in a haze of playa filth and smiles. Needless to say, my interest was fully piqued at that point, and a couple of years later, I moved to San Francisco.
Thank you, Tom! You’ll be missed.
Haideen thanks all for the thoughts and asks all to send good thoughts
out to his surviving Mom in Portland. Haideen also asks those that wish
to do something to keep alive Toms spirit they should check out the Non
Violent Peace Force. http://www.nvpf.org/
Tom especially loved the Texas chapter, the group really lives
Tom’s ideals internationally in its daily actions and deeds.
Plans are afoot by the Art Car Crowd for a memorial service in the SF
Bay Area, as well as a family gathering in his home town of Portland.
Date still to to be set on both. Tom is to be cremated.
Details on the memorial service will emerge here and at his website
http://www.tomkennedyart.com in a few days, possibly Wednesday.
When I first heard of this, I was in complete denial – there is no way that this could happen to Tom Kennedy. The man is strong, real strong and the indestructible type that motors through everything. I have been on many adventures with Tom – he’s part of my life and my work and my dreams and we shared a similar live-to-play philosophy.
This is going to take awhile for me to accept and process. The irony is that Tom’s work has been inspired by what he called sea creatures – “Dusty Dave the Dolphin Car,” the angel fish bike “Fish Bait,” the Shark bike “Smoker” and of course “Ripper” and the made-for-Burning Man “Whale.” And then he is taken by the sea.
The timing of this is especially sad for me as just this weekend we are showing the movie that Tom is featured in – “Automorphosis” in Houston where he hailed from – that he won’t be able to celebrate with everyone hurts the most.
Tom has touched a lot of people along the way – and will continue to do so. My love goes out to Tom, his mom and family and Haideen- and all of you.
Harrod
I met Tom Kennedy in 2001 – the last year I did Houston – also the year I had so many car troubles getting there (including the engine blowing up) I was towed to Portland OR.. where I was going to meet up with Tom and we were to lead a convoy of assorted Artcars on the road trip to Houston. Well that didn’t happen as my car was being worked on, and Tom still needed to finish the Tri Nash Fin.. so he graciously let me stay at his & his mom’s place. Tom was an Artcar Godfather.. every pore on his body emanated with artistic and enthusiastic energy. He was shining from the inside out with a kindness and positive glow that was contagious. Even though our adventure together on this ride was very short, the time I did get to spend with him, siliconing black glass beads and sprinkling glitter on his new ride(at the time), installing the great ‘eye’ that Extremo the clown painted for him, and testing out the ‘twinkie cannon’ and ‘flame shooter’ ….. I immediately felt a life long bond of friendship… the stories, laughter and life… I truly believe after meeting Tom, that ‘anything’ was possible if you set your mind to it. Thank you Tom for your kindness, your spirit, your being, your inspiration to do ‘right’ in the world and always enjoy the time. I feel extremely fortunate to have called you my friend. Peace and hopes that you find a million twinkies to aim at a million targets up there :) Hugs and Love to all that are sharing this tragic loss to the Artcar world that we all live on
I am so saddened by this loss. Tom was always such a fun loving, and kind person. He will be truly missed. Time to make a Shark Car for the afterlife. This one with wings.
Tom, is one of the kindest man you will ever meet, who quickly became a friend within the past month that I’v'e known him from working with the flaming lotus girls at the Boxshop. I will truly miss his spirit but will always be amazed at energy he exude through a simple smile and the art work he created.
Tom was big, strong, and possessed of a gigantic heart. I only barely got to know him, but who he touched and how showed off just what a great man he was. He will be more than missed.
Tom was one of the most genuine, kind & spirited people I’ve ever known. I heartily second Simon Barber, who wrote that “every interaction I had with Tom showed the fun, kindness and depth of character he had.” A prankster, an artist and a rebel. Tom was both a friend and a hero, A big man with a young boy’s mischievious sparkle forever in his eyes. Were it not for Tom’s creativity, skill and abundance, one of the most incredible, surreal experiences of my life would never have happened: Sitting atop our giant rubber duck as Tom’s glowing white whale swooped & circled around us, chased through the night by the beautiful La Contessa.
As has already been expressed by many here, his death just seems so hard to fathom. A big strong man, full of heart and optimism, Tom always seemed so… enduring. A rugged, grinning constant among our worldwide family of transient freaks, clowns and weirdos.
And though he will be deeply missed, his character and creations will continue to inspire us, will continue – as they have so clearly already and abundantly done – to change the world.
Thank you Tom. Voidspeed.
(And here I must picture him like Slim Pickens in “Dr. Strangelove”, straddling the giant rocket of his most recent art/protest vehicle and joyously free-falling into the afterlife with a whoop and a grin.)
I was out surfing at Ocean Beach a couple of miles away at 2 PM. I was out at Sloat, but I thought about going out at the Cliff House as it is more sheltered from the wind. I wonder if I could have done something if I had been around. The rip tides were pretty strong as they usually are but it wasn’t more dangerous than usual. I helped Tom and Hadeen set up their Bush goodbye party a couple months ago. That was the last time I saw him.
I will really miss that guy. He was a great artist and a great person. I learned a lot just by watching him work at the Box Shop and picking his brain, just a really generous person with his time and knowledge.
Kiko
I have missed you over the years and I will continue to miss you in the future. Heaven will be a funnier place now that you will art it up.
I don’t remember when I first met Tom. He was building a flying saucer art car at Nimby. I was bored so I helped him out for a couple of weeks. Now I wish I could have spent more time with him.
i met tom just a month ago out at the box shop. bright eyed, i started coming out the shop *finally* after many years of wanting to work with metal. running around the yard, i met heydeen and tom one sunday afternoon. heydeen was in the process of making a gorgeous orange hippo for one cute lil’ lulu and tom was busy at work on one of his many gorgeous bells. the bell he’d transported to the shop that day was tall and lizard green and stood about 6 feet encircled by a heart of spiraled metal. the intricacy, the detail, and, oh, that sound! the gorgeous, deep, resonating sound that that bell made. he said he’d made one like it for his folks and that he and heydeen were planning to box this one up and send it off to her folks. i was fascinated by the work–and by the joy and light that emanated from both of them. last weekend, at a long FLG work day of packing up mutopia, i saw tom again. this time, while standing over the bbq table, i asked him about the bells. he told me all about the process, from beginning to end with all the steps in between–the practice, the experimentation, the evolution. he spoke with such relish, such excitement, such passion about the discovery. i told him about the project i’ve been mulling over–my first attempt at metal sculpture. in those 10 min we shared over pork sammiches, i got it–everything that everyone has written here. a friend of mine has this great phrase when she and i talk about people with creative joy like tom: infectiously brilliant. though my glimpse of him was so very brief, it will always be remembered as one of those great moments in life when you think, yeah, of course. it’s all possible. all of it. thank you for being infectiously brilliant, tom. you will be missed.
Tom was a great inspiration to so many people, myself included.
I am so deeply saddened by loss of such a wonderful man and artist.
…
I am so terribly sad to hear this. I have always loved seeing Tom (and Haideen) down at the Boxshop and seeing what new cool project they were working on. I am just devastated that he’s not going to there anymore to chat and talk with about anything and everything, including his inspiring work. My heart goes out to Haideen and his mother. I wish him the peace that he wished for the world.
this news is shocking…how could this be true? We had a long talk at NIMBY, laughing and bsing about this and that…and the future.
We are all lucky to have had you in our lives. Peace to you in the next phase.
A life Well Lived Is A Life Worth Living….
sigh
and chill down my spine…
RIP Tom Kennedey~
—I happened to be out there, sitting on na bench, watching pirate punks and surfers while shuffling through my shit and listening to the Kinks@the stairs below the cliff house…saw a motorcycle/dirtbike cop head over there, leave, and then an ambulance—
I had no fucking idea
I had no fucking clue
I would of yelled something…anything…
“Spaulding, Man!”
“Kennedy, Man!!!”
I am flabbergasted
-smm
You will always be my brother, on land or in the sea, on earth or in the sky, and we will sail that desert, and we will drive that ocean on roads that never end.
omg…
the artist big brother I never had, who taught and consoled me, in a too few times working side-by-side that I will always be grateful for…
me sad….
Oh, damn….
Tom Kennedy . rest in peace. we will miss your crazy ass wit and inspirational art and art cars. I remember setting out to build a custom art car commission and seeking Toms advise and his boot strap inspiration.
I will truly miss him and is grey haired wit, he was a dedicated one man art movement rivaled by no one.
from,
Justin Gray.
I didn’t know the man, but am appreciative of his work. I was actually there yesterday and was wondering why there were EMT’s and police vehicles at Ocean Beach near the Cliffhouse. Very tragic…
Tom, I didn’t know who you were or what you did until I came across this tweet from LaughingSquid about ten seconds ago. I am sorry your human body will no longer be able to share with us the fresh and fantastical projects that beam to your antennae.
My heart goes out to your friends, family, and fans who have been there with you since the beginning of and throughout your journey. Its evident how far and wide your inspiration has traveled and how many lives you have affected.
I am now encouraged to research you so I can truly appreciate your cosmicality. Thank you for making yourself known to me.
Tom, being an activist,
would want you all to know this:
http://www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov/
My condolences to all of Tom’s friends and family.
Tom- Thanks for sharing all of your joy and mischief. You have made the world a truly better place. Thank you.
Having seen him so little over the years, I am feeling displaced by such a loss. I adored this man and probably never told him in so many words. Would rather be telling him this than writing it in a public space.
The year the whale emerged, working with Flash, I got to spend almost a month with Tom between Placerville and the playa. I had barely connected with Tom one-on-one before that. I am so grateful for that time. He was an incredible person to witness. So kind. So calm. So bright. We all had so much fun together. in years following, whenever I would see him, even if only for a moment, there was genuine love and appreciation between us.
Thank you Tom, for being such a light in this world.
You will be deeply missed.
So saddened by this…a great spirit gone from our midst. God speed to Tom and condolences to his family…another reason taken from the ‘I’d rather keep living column’ over to the “I won’t mind dying column’…We’re really going to miss you Tom. Go slow, but hurry back. ~Leo
I am so sad about the loss of such a great artist, and thinker, and kind man! Tom brought his art cars to Minneapoils for the first Art-Car crawl, and I still remember being in awe of this person who created Ripper the shark, and more recently during the RNC when he brought the Bush-Cheney Cruise Missile Truck to Minneapolis. He brought a lot of interesting art to our city. I feel blessed that I met him and was able to know him even in just a small way, and I am sending lots of love and prayers to his family and friends.
My deepest sympathy!
Sandee – Faerie-Elf car
Minneapolis, MN
I cant believe it…I surely dont want to believe it…I hate that it’s true.
in a grey business suit during his lunch hour from his corporate job a man walked into the Orange Show office with a snap shot and a hand written letter – it was Tom with a parade entry a shark car with card board fins and spary painted waves/gills; Tom was shy and akward, joyous and determined….a wild wonderful man at the tipping point of a personal transformaion. I am so honored to have known him so honored to have struggled with him and laughed with him.
I am so sorry for the enormous loss.
Dearest, sweet, brave, smiling, ever ready for a fun road trip, a art car caravan, a trip costing time, money & love to go and protest the injustices in this country, always giving me encouragement, enthusiams for whatever my own dreams are…
Oh, Tom, we lost you to the waves, I am deeply saddened, trying to let the tears warm up to make something of it, as you always made art from what you found. I’m so happy you and Haideen had/have each other, love is forever… There is no time, distance or level of this life/the next life that can separate loved ones. You certainly touched many people’s lives, the art you made continues on inspiring your friends, family, extended family and those who may not have known you, but they know your art, others yet to discover your art. Playful, political, pun-intentional art…
If, in fact, we pass through this life to achieve wealth, I certainly found it the moment I saw your Whale crossing the Playa to cruise with La Contesa. Thanks for the many cinematic moments you gave us all.
love, hope, destiny…
Hunter
I will really miss Tom and he will be missed by all the art car artists and anybody who loves art, in general. He was a great human being (a mensch), a big bear of a guy, and a great visionary and craftsman. His greatest contribution to all of us was how he expressed his lust for life: you could see that in every project he took on – every party he produced. – every conversation and email. He definitely inspired my work on my Sharpkr (sometimes Marblus) and you can see it clearly (lots of fins and spikes). We were talking about doing a project together, but hadn’t moved on it yet. Our hearts go out to Haydeen and his family and all who loved him. This is a big loss and hole in our community.
RIP to the creator of Ripper. Tom was a prince of men. He had a great heart, hands, and mind. I considered him a good friend and was always inspired by his words and deeds. I will sorely miss the projects that we never had a chance to collaborate on. He lived a marvelous life and a shame it was cut short. I mourn for him.
Tom’s body of work is astounding. He built American Art, the Art Car. And took us all along for the ride. Without fear or a parking spot for any of them. He lost his art to the tow truck many times. Can you imagine?
Sad. But I really feel blessed to have known him at all.
Life is fragile. I will miss Tom Kennedy. So will a million others. The really sad thing here is all the kids that will miss his work… the work he never got to make. Lets make sure that we always save a place for Tom to park…
Chicken
I will miss Tom very much. The world was such a playground for Tom. I remember pulling up next to Tom on I-80 diving the Topsy-Turvy bus. I lit up the bus with my flashing lights and everyone panicked, everyone except Tom who just started laughing. Tom just started laughing and must have thought “here we go again” Tom was having a blast. I think Flash or Dana first recognized it was me and pretty soon all in the bus were back to having fun, after a few miles I headed off to Marin and they went back to Oakland.
Tom was a wonderful person who I could talk to for a few minutes or hours, he was indeed one of the good guys and I will miss him dearly.
My god, this really hurts. He hadn’t even begun yet. I loved the missile dick chicks. what glee that produced. What a sparkle in his eye…. He improved the world around him. He made shit better…
These stupid tears are messing me up.
Another painful loss. When I first moved to Houston found Art Cars, Tom was one of the first cartists I met. He inspired me to build big and build crazy. i will miss his rampant jackassery…
Tom put a smile on the face of thousands, not just by showing the art cars he created, but by being himself; inspired, consistent, and friendly to a fault. He lived his art, drove his art, and sometimes parked his art in front of our home.
*May his art roll on!*
I met Tom a few years back , when He and our “Tribe” were working on a project together. His energy was amazing and intense and he was definitely a “GIANT” in the world of art and ideas. Mike is also a friend of ours, I’m grateful they were together and thankful that Mike was there to help though I am sure he is devastated by Tom’s passing. Certainly the memories of Tom’s creations will live on in our memories, as will the greatness of this man, He will certainly be missed amongst us. my thoughts are with his family and all his friends as we learn to live without his pressence.
Bare
Goodbye my friend.
Big Hurrahs for the life and work of Tom Kennedy! A circus strongman for the artcar arena. I was just getting ready to send him the postcard I found of a 1950s rocket truck painted red, white and blue from the Circus World Museum. His Missile Truck was great political theater (with a point!) and it is so rare to find a good political artist who can use humor to help the cause. His generosity and willingness to show up and support everyone else’s work was phenomenal. He was just up here for Art Cars on Ice this winter, making a real effort to keep that cross country bond for art cars alive and kicking. And he made so many really good art cars. He was also super excited to be included in my book, Road Show: Art Cars and the Museum of the Streets and it sucks he won’t get to sign a copy for me when it comes out in August. We will all miss him so much.
it suddenly feels iike a hole in the world somewhere. I will miss Tom’s innocence and childlike spirit.
I loved Tom very dearly. An amazing, wonderful, vastly inspiring, high-minded, great-hearted, strong & gentle, joy-filled, idealistic/spiritual/humanistic sweet sweet man. God, it hurts that you were swept away from us, but god we are all so blessed to have had you in our lives, in the life of the world. Thank you, Tom, for all you built & gave & were and are. May the road through the universe sing you on.
My Condolences goes out to all his crew.
I met him when 5th Ave marina had an art car show.
We were all blown away by his car.
Nice guy
He hung out for a few days.
Love & Respect………..Vinnie
If you can tell a person’s stature in the world by the shock of grief that rounds round it when that person passes, Tom was surely a giant among us Meres.
I knew him only scantly, but I knew his work and his reputation well. He made bigger-than-life toys for us to play with, and he knew to do with them was share them.
There’s some big shoes to fill sitting out there on some weird desert horizon tonight…
Does anyone want to take one of Toms X artcars off my hands? We had him build it for burning man 04.
I feel like someone just punched out a piece of me. Tom was a dear friend from Houston. We originally met while working on Art Car Weekend in Houston, back in the early ’90s when he wore a suit to work. So hard to picture that now… Ripper the Friendly Shark was in his first incarnation and Tom had a few bikes he’d also turned into fish. Our Lady of What We Have in Common was created — a school bus with truck cab on the top which later became Finestra with the back end of a Cadillac hearse added to the back. And fins. Fins on everything. Max the Amazing Daredevil Finmobile was the ultimate expression of those fins. Spent LOTS of time on top of that vehicle. One of my fondest memories of Tom was when we rode on top during the Mardi Gras festival in Galveston, safely above the teeming crowds demanding beads, somewhat altered and wearing 2 of my Haitian carnival masks, Tom in the bull and me in the lion. Such a blast of an evening. And the roadtrips! Austin, New Orleans, Burning Man, wherever. Tom make sure the whole gang was invited.
Tom had an amazing ability to be a social and political critic without losing his sense of humor. A big heart and gentle presence…. I am so sad for Haideen’s and all of our loss.
Here is a pic of the car Tom built for us.
http://www.tomkennedyart.com/visitationrside.jpg
Tom was and will always be a bright shining light . He is a inspiration to life and living it to the fullest Your are missed
love you
john
I’ve been crying enough today, then I bawled even harder when I read Chicken’s comment, “The really sad thing here is all the kids that will miss his work… the work he never got to make. ”
The last time I saw Tom was at his “goodbye Bush” party at the Box Shop. I brought my 3 year old son there–the first time I’d dared to bring him near rusty metal and fire. At first he was afraid of the “Wheel of shame” and the flamethrower–Tom got Levi comfortable with it, and Levi nearly used up all the propane! Tom was patient with Levi as he rocked the mic singing the ABCs with Dana’s devil’s food cake smeared all over his face, and proudly sported Haideen’s amazing George Bush mask. It was the best time I’d had in the 3 years since my son was born (I don’t get out much!). Thanks Tom for teaching my son, by showing him and allowing him to experiment. I will make sure that he always remembers you.
My heart is heavy with sadness.
The shock of knowing Tom has gone to another place without us is too much to bear.
Tom, you were a wonderful friend and wise mentor.
I miss you already.
Love to Haideen and all who loved him.
I only met Tom & Haideen once at Art Car Fest in Douglas, AZ. We hung out at the compound at night and had breakfast with them the next morning. Some people you can just tell right away are awesome, I really liked them a lot. My condolences to his family and Haideen.
I’ve known tom for many years, but only recently had we really started to be friends. Tom truly was one one of the art giants in the bay area. his love of life and his optimism will stay with me for years to come.
thank you tom for so many things. My heart goes out to his wife Haideen and Tom’s family because tom filled a very large space in the world with so much love, that will be very hard to fill.
All of us are heart broken as we prepare Tom’s wonderful giant Laughing Sal for her Exhibit this weekend.
“The Road to Playland and Back”, an artists journey and Art Exhibit ,will be dedicated to Tom who along with Flash, was commissioned to built her for Burning Man 2001.
The Exhibit is free and everyone who shares Tom ’s dream of sharing the fun is welcome.
Royce Gallery 2901 Mariposa (at Harrison) Doors open 7:30 April 17 ,18 and May 1,2
Tom Kennedy was all-of-our friend. He worked towards bringing us together to celebrate the best of humanity. Tom’s car (one of many) “Ripper the Friendly Shark” was a peacemaker. He traveled with it around the US and Europe and was working towards bringing it to places where he could use it to bring happiness and attention to the disenfranchised.
Tom’s humor, art and activism were integral to his boundary-crossing personality. His Mother Pat said to me this morning “He decided early on he was going to define his own life.” As he did, he included the rest of us in his plan, a plan to make the world better, kinder and more playful. Generous he was quick to offer leadership for, or assistance to, projects that pushed ideals such as fairness, justice, and fun. He was inventive, skilled and also able to visualize a seemingly impossible task and figure out how to make it happen. When we were lucky he asked us to help, often he and his closest collaborator and wonderful wife artist and performer Haideen Anderson made the work themselves welding and sculpting wondrous art cars and props for their art happenings and political actions.
Tom I will miss you every day. I appreciate all the courage you have shown me, your warm compassion, diplomatic communication, all the play all the dreaming and the ingenious solutions to problems we faced making sculpture together, you are like my brother and I love you and your memory beyond time and space.
Brian Goggin
WOw. such sad news. years ago in Houston, we met and had a great time! the shark car was complete and total fun. tom you will be missed, but you will shine as bright as ever in every persons memory who had the pleasure of meeting you. sending big love and gratitude for your gigantic heart. all our best, Lynn and John, the Carrobizarro. xoxo
I, for one, will always remember Tom as the person whose magnificent creation gave TheWhoFarm a platform, Topsy Turvy, to spread the dream of vegetables growing on the White House lawn…a dream that has come true.
Just today, our bus trip was mentioned in USA Today: http://www.usatoday.com/news/opinion/columnist/raasch/2009-04-13-raasch_N.htm Talk about good mileage!
I first spoke to Tom on the phone to let him know that we’d be turning the roof of his creation into a vegetable garden, and to ask him for some advice. I was unsure what his reaction would be. I’d never spoken to him before, and some artists do not appreciate it when others modify their works of art. But, Tom’s reaction was quite the opposite. He said that he had always hoped that someone would find a good purpose for the roof, and that a veggie garden would be awesome!
I’d been meaning to call him up for the past few days to let him know that Topsy Turvy made it to a fancy cooking magazine.
http://www.bonappetit.com/magazine/2009/05/the_garden_bus_guys
And here are a few pictures of Topsy Turvy paying a visit to a Barack Obama rally in Manchester, NH, circa 2007.
http://www.thewhofarm.org/barack-obama-with-topsy-turvy/
RIP Tom Kennedy. A true patriot!
I was fortunate to be a crew member of La Contessa in 2002, my first (and best) year at Burning Man. The sight of the white whale appearing out of the darkness is a something I will never forget.
The world is a poorer place for his passing. Sail on, Tom.
Were it not for Tom Kennedy, hundreds, possibly thousands of people just like me would never have taken a plasma cutter to a perfectly good car. Tom was an inspiration; always helpful, but with the correct amount of constructive criticism. The streets, the playa and the world of outsider art and political guerrilla theater will be a lesser place without him.
Poetry and lyrics by Tom Kennedy and Haideen Andersen :
WASTEFUL – DISTASTEFUL – DISGRACEFUL
by Tom Kennedy and Haideen Anderson 2007
“Those of you who back the war
Who make-up what we’re fighting for
You’re truly living by the sword
Shame on you and your entire hoard
Those of you who pump the fear
Through mainstream media’s friendly ear
You’re the one who should be damned
By those of us with extended hands
War pigs roasting on the spit
Sausage bacon burned a bit
It’s time for you to call it quits
Go make some friends and chill a bit
All of you who were raised on hate
For Armageddon you just can’t wait
Your names are on the Devil’s Slate
A life in hell is your just fate
Pentagon Pentagon your budget’s bloated
Your wastefulness has been noted
The last time that the people voted
It was WAR that was demoted
Nationalism is the disease
Created by you lying slease
You stoke the fires of fear with ease
Be gone with you! I bid your leave
How many people have to die
Before you hear the people’s cry?
I wish that I could ask you why
So many people have to die?
You who kill people as you please
Lay down your arms and go in peace
If you continue your evil ways
Your soul will vanish into the haze
You who start a war with lies
Who cannot hear the childrens cries
Who now ALL people do despise
We know your heart is full of flies
Those of you who deal in death
Whose lips drip blood with every breath
We hereby take your power away
And give it back to the people today
Where’s the wasted money?
In the land of milk and honey
You think this war is funny?
Your Pinocchio nose is runny!
Pentagon, Pentagon
Where’s that trillion dollars gone?
In the pockets of your cronies
Who are stealing the tax money
Rumsfeld’s legacy does remain
Public loss for private gain!”
Dino Demolition Song by Tom Kennedy:
“It looks like there is no solution
For CO2 and air pollution
It’s time we had some evolution
Or maybe just a revolution
You’re looking at the new sensation
It’s spreading all across the nation
It’s time for all the population
To take out all of it’s frustration
Dinosaur Demolition……
I guess my brother was right
I’m gonna, I wanna die young
I guess my brother was right
I’m gonna die young”
Oof. Ow. Oh oh oh.
This is one deep kick in the gut.
Aw Tom. I’m gonna miss them big warm handshakes and endless enthusiasm. How can this be? You’re too big and strong and goofy and…constant for this. One damn fine quality human being has left the room.
Oof. Ow.
Art car funeral procession, anyone? ‘Twould seem fitting.
What to say that’s not already been said…I feel fortunate to live in Portland, Tom’s home base. First met him at Burning Man ‘94, where he chauffeured us Disgruntled Postal Workers around the Drive-By Shooting Range. (Ahh, them were the days!) Met him on many an occasion since, most recently the Art Car West Fest ‘09.
What a humanitarian, and gentle, strong spirit. I hope he’s severely amusing the angels…
He was one cool dude.
Wow, what a big man to be lost at sea, leaving such a huge hole in our collective spirit. I did not know this man, but I sure recognize his rides. Seeing one of his rolling fish always put a smile on my face. Can art save the world? I think Tom would have said yes. He knew that art needs to be seen to move us. His art moved to see us too. He took those motorized fish to swim the streets, and it made lots and lots of people of all ages and many backgrounds happy. Is there any better legacy than knowing you created happiness? Thank you for honoring this creative and generous hero of humanity with this site… I am moved to tears of sadness at his loss and tears of joy that such folly still exists in this world.
…………. Lost for words….Kind being…always positive! ….full of life and love………..dunno..I am lost for words…………Tears flow down my cheeks…….loss of such a wonderful being! Tom you will be missed! Thanks for sharing some positive moments…………….for being such an excellent Teacher………
OMG…..shock is hardly the word……mortality is perhaps more like it. I always considered Tom an AC mentor from his Ripper days….once amused to see him driving-thru McDonald’s on Westheimer. As I joined the Parade as an artist…….I was pleased to be in his league. Loved the Bicycles to Bosnia project and developed even more respect for this arty humanitarian. Exchanged e-messages during the Presidential Inauguration and was honored to hear of his respect for ME!
My world is diminished by his loss……….
R.I.P.er the Friendly Shark…….
Dear Tom,
I wanna be you when I grow up.
Love,
Gaia
Like all of Tom’s friends we were stunned to hear of his death. If Tom signified anything, it was life. He embodied living and encouraged us all to do the same. The real gift Tom gave was time. Tom would stop what he was doing, and focus on you. He would devote himself to you fully, doling himself out to all of us one at a time.
We feel privileged to have known Tom for the past fifteen years. We knew him as a dear friend but also as a gifted artist who worked collaboratively and had a strong vision and desire to communicate. As JoAnne wrote in her ArtCar essay in Afterburn: Reflections on Burning Man, “Kennedy’s ArtCars have come to represent the pinnacle of ArtCar design.”
We love you Tom. And our hearts go out to your family and especially to the love of Tom’s life, Haideen. Rest in peace.
I had the privilege of serving as co-sub-junior-bartender with Tom on Pepper Mauser’s mobile living room at BM 98, 99, 00. After the first year, he was expecting me. Tom had the special ability of making you feel like you had known him all your life after just meeting him. He was a very comfortable person. You will be missed!
oh, Tom…
thank you, for shining so brightly!
thank you for living life on your own terms,
for caring deeply about the world
and for making your message beautiful…
no matter how overwhelming the odds in this crazy mixed up world,
you
never
ever
lost your
sense of wonder…
what a lesson.
In a time of crisis you helped me remember to play, helped me find joy again.
you taught me so much…
I am so glad to have known you.
and I wish I had the chance to tell you this…
this community heals. the work you do has the power to touch lives…changes lives. art matters. pranksters wake people up, shake us out of our fog and remind us to we don’t have to accept things as they are.
you are appreciated and loved.
and oh, my you will be missed….
Though I didn’t know Tom well, he made me feel as though I did. I sensed he made most people feel that way. His giant heart and soul and passion and exuberance will surely be sorely missed by many, many people. Haideen, Tom’s family, and all who loved him will be in my thoughts and prayers.
I am shocked to hear we’ve lost such a brilliant artist. I’m touched personally by the loss as he designed and with friends made me a “Cat Car” for Burning Man.
Before I ever attended Burning Man I saw Chuck’s 1994 video about the event. “Ripper” the shark was the most memorable part of the film. I couldn’t believe something so animated was running around in that barren wasteland.
I have attended the Houston Art Car Fest twice. It was amazing to see the number of people he knew and who knew and loved his work. It’s a small club of really talented designers and visionaries who can fabricate such mobile joy.
When Tom approached me and said he didn’t think it fitting for me to be in a golf cart at Burning Man, I was stunned and flattered he’d even approached me. He. Haideen and I met at Atlas Cafe. He had several ideas of what he wanted to see me in. It was all his idea, all his design, all his concept. At one point he wanted to make sure there was going to be a mouse car (or motorbike) that I could chase. We settled on a “kitty roadster”, and agreed on what costs he would incur. I pulled money from my savings and handed it over. I bought the fur in LA, and only saw the car in production once.
It arrived on the playa covered in green plastic wrap. She was so beautiful. I remember standing there giggling, and tearing off the plastic. I’m certain that Christmas as a child was never quite as euphoric as the unveiling of the cat car was for me. Anyone who knows me has an understanding of my obsession with cats. This car is a cat, but with 4 wheels. I’ve treasured that car, and told anyone and everyone it was made by Tom Kennedy. I didn’t drive her much in 2008 for various reasons. But, I hope we can have an art car parade on the Playa in his honor…..I’m so there.
Thank you Tom for your humor, vision, non-stop-ideas……Thank you Flash, Dana, Haideen for your collaboration with Tom on that brilliant art piece I’m so fortunate enough to be the custodian of such a wonderful piece of mobile art on the playa.
Marian Goodell
meow meow
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8736917@N03/sets/72157616648074071/
I was on the beach when his friend pulled him in and I can’t get Tom out of my mind. Everyone on the beach responded so quickly to try to save him. I wish I had checked in with his friend who pulled him in, whoever he is. You are also in our thoughts. I am so sorry. Again, everyone on the beach tried so hard to save him. My thoughts go out to his family. On the beach as the medics were trying to save him, he was surrounded by many people who were praying for his life.
Tom has always been so friendly to me and to so many. He’s always taken time to listen, and to share. He’s always been so respectful…. And he was also an artist deep in his soul, left a comfortable job to live his dream, not caring for what you’re supposed to be or do. But even more important he was an activist, he didn’t want to just argue over social issues, he didn’t want to just be angry at what happens to our societies, he wanted to be there part of the protest, he wanted to create the protest, he made art to support these ideas.. he lived what he believed. And he was so happy doing it. I don’t know if I can say the same. I admire him and love him.
All my thoughts go to Haideen, and his mother and his family.
You guided me through so many things, Tom. I love you.
Olivier.
A kind soul that touched our hearts, showed us compassion, awareness and a true hero of determination.
Tom’s magic will remain in our souls for the rest of our lives.
Love and prayers to his family and loving wife.
Tom, you’ll live on in all of us. For myself, you’ll be there whenever I’m running out of energy on a project, getting discouraged, questioning my inspiration, losing courage. You’ve always been a voice in my head pushing me through those moments, and now you’ll be louder than ever. Thanks for being such a spectacular human and artist.
Some thoughts , memories of Tom Kennedy
- early, like ‘95- in Houston with the ArtCar Caravan , the house in the Heights — the trees and the grass lawn — drinking beer and passing a joint — leaning on a car– this big friendly guy — very relaxed and open — seeing everything and everybody kind of papa-brother spirit.
-Later at the warehouse– building all the Sea Creature cars — we came to film him that morning — he’d been up all night painting and doing fiberglass work on the cars — there were living quarters there, fashioned roughly from raw materials — not so much a place to live – a place to collapse after working to complete exhaustion.
-driving Ripper- pumping that weird handle-push rod thing with his massive hand-arm-shoulder- body rhythm – making that jaw flap
open and shut- the whole front half of the car lifting and chomping
shut again, again and again
-all the time in the world positivity– taking forever for us to find a good place to do an interview. No problem guys- how about around the corner there’s mural– a few doors down from from the Orange Show. painted on the side of a fence or something- next to a vacant lot. A perfect backdrop. I think Harrod used the shot in Automorphosis. Tom’s wearing a punky looking cool guy hat. Very knowing speaker. Happy to be here now doing this. for us.
–I am walking on the Playa — I’m on my own- in the wide open – the Whale car is out there too somewhere. This thing is huge. It’s as big as a house. The big Whale car comes from behind– stealthy– right by me at nice fast clip- swerving a bit in front of me–I’m watching him curve- – the spring loaded Whale’s tail swishes by my nose a moment later- missing me by mere inches. just saying hi.
The man could drive.
– an Art Car Fest Party- in Alameda– talking up lots of crazy ideas about an Art Car that will appear at some right wing event and transform into a bombastic billboard raging against Bush , complete with a Republican Elephant copulating the earth. The ideas becoming more and more complex and fantastic and detailed …
– Jan 09′ Checking out the Missile Dick Mobile– sorry- I don’t know the right name of this particular creation– We’re out in front of the Shattuck theater– Automorphosis premiering in Berkeley. I’m thinking “Ok this is the one he was talking about building the last time I saw him.” I’m talking up to him in the cab, and I have to lean against the door to hear him. My hand comes away with red enamel on it. And on my new yellow rain coat too. shit. oh well. Later , after the film screens, I see him at Beckett’s. He’s got red paint all over his nice sport coat, which he’s bummed about, but he’s really not too bummed about it, because it’s funny once you let go of it. I think he must of painted the car that afternoon.
-the awesome power of nature, the unbelief at first of hearing this sad news– that’s a very special spirit you won’t see again in the world –
My condolences to Tom’s family and friends.
David Silberberg
Dear dear dear dear Haideen,
Oh, my!
Even here in Brooklyn our hearts are broken.
Only met Tom a couple of times when he came through NY to be with you. It was your world on this coast, and Tom was your guy. That’s how I at least knew him. Had that twinkle about him, and so we all knew he was just right for you. Amazing, without even knowing him, that impish twist that allowed him to see possibilities where others saw only the deadening weight of routine. Out there, on the Left coast, you entered Tom’s world, and your Brooklyn insanity was just right for him. A tale of two oceans. Ohhhhh.
I remember at your wedding in Battery Park how Tom went running all over the City without knowing his way around to bring you the flower bouquet, I think it was, that you’d forgotten. And we waited for Tom (of course) and when he finally found his way there you lit up like a ruby and he a Cheshire cat.
Haideen, dear dear Haideen — Friends, comrades, mischief-makers on both coasts cry out, hug you across this continent of tears ……
All my love, Haideen. All our love to you ….. always.
Mitchel
Finitude
Somewhere a shark shudders as it instinctively senses its father will create no more.
Somewhere a dolphin makes clean lines in the dust on its fiberglass cheeks with its artistic tears.
Somewhere a shark bike can’t take the loss and drifts sideways in the sea of storage with x’es for eyes.
Somewhere a van whose fins once reached to the sky sits with tearful snot running from its ringed nose.
Somewhere a saintly bus with huge fins and a cadillac ass can’t roll with the weight of her grief that we all have in common.
Somewhere a ranger turned nash that lost an eye and didn’t die now wonders if it can go on without those strong hands on its wheel.
Somewhere a whale has gone to pieces and now despairs that it may never get it together to go too fast again.
Somewhere a hippo doesn’t wag its tail, and squeezes a tear out of its winking eye.
Somewhere a fuzzy curve tailed cat car meows to its maiden and asks why.
But somewhere………. a veeeery unusual school bus reflects on itself, keeps its eyes on the prize… and rolls on.
And somewhere………. a whimsical missile truck waits, poised to stop that war yet.
And somewhere………. pristine fresh wrought fins adorn a puckered up Black Rock fish that can’t wait to get that first coat of playa dust….. forever.
And somewhere a kid looks at a book about Art Cars, consults Wikipedia, or like my Grandson did, surfs a Ripley’s page and does NOT believe it, but sees that it can be done…. anything can be done…. and with a certain, finitude……. finatically even.
And everywhere, people who knew him and people who knew of him, live out their lives richer for the experience of… Tom Kennedy.
I love you Tom and I know you loved me and that’s what means everything to me.
I have no words to express my feelings , but I will try …
From usa many but news come ,
but this morning´s news , was too bad ,too sad,. It´s hard for me to believe it .
At this moment i choose not to speak about tom´s meaningful art . but instead I like to remark TOM´s generosity and commitment to life.
Some art may last and be taken care for a long time , but Tom´s spirit to inspire people to be free , to loose fear , to keep fighting, to be humble , to be helpful, to laugh , to see thing positive. Will live forever . it will live inside my brain and heart , it will rule my days.
Thank you TOM to show me what I have mentioned above…
Love
R L
I’m at such a loss… must breathe. Tom, you leave a massive wake in our comminity and world, we will be celebrating you to eternity.
Hugs to you Haideen, the family on Bowdoin Street and all those that pass through your wonderful generous lives.
I didn’t know him well, but he played an important part in my car Hope Springs, not only inspiring it but in 1995 being generous enough to weld the giant leaf springs to the top in a way that helped me make the rest of it come together. He and Shelley showed me the heart of the Houston art car community and ever since I’ve watched his progress through the years as if watching a distant cousin in the art car family as he made not only good, but better and better. Good bye Tom.
I’m sad for the ones who knew him best and for the ones he had yet to meet.
Here is a video I shot at Burning Man in 1995. Feautures Tom zipping around in Ripper the Shark. This was one of the happiest mommnets in my life and i have it on film.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZUIX12dDIk
Tom and I first met in ‘89 while working together at the Chronicle. We quickly became best friends. I witnessed the creation of Ripper & Our Lady Bus. It was great fun to go on scavenger events with Tom, gathering materials for his art projects.
Tom never met a stranger. He touched everyone who ever had the pleasure of meeting him. He will surely be missed. Rock on Tom! May you rest in Peace. Forever your friend, John.
A lot of who I am not only as an artist, but as a human being is due to the lessons of art and kindness that I learned from my friend. I will miss you deeply, Tom.
Adding my inadequate voice to the many tributes here–
Farewell, my friend! From Houston to Berkeley, you inspired many and gave me many fine rides and good times. The world just became a less colorful, kind, and creative place, and I’ll miss you.
James
Respect the architect.
You and your vision will live on 4ever.
ART CARS RULE!!!
Bless,
Wil
despite this tragic event, it’s nice to see who’s art i enjoyed while on the playa. May he rest in peace. His presence will still be felt every August……
Tom lived his life entirely on his own terms, and actually “made it” as much as anyone I know making a living off of his art, and art cars at that! And the fact that such a rapscallion would find true love, and settle down. Awesome life, buddy. And awesome wife, too. Every woman I know had a crush on him, and why not? He was adorable.
Not having a TV I set out to find one so I could do my duty as a soldier in Major Tom’s partay and watch Flash kick some renaissance ass. Kelly was teaching late, but burner buddy and artcartist Jim was available and met me at a sports bar nearby.
Tom made me feel like a kid every time we were together…all fun all the time. I secretly worried that his business plan (making a living making art-cars) wasn’t sound as it led to no retirement. I think the lesson there is never retire…Always Have Fun!
Major Tom says: But watch out for Rip-Tides below Cliffhouse, Goddammit!
Tom:
Your artcars will live on, your inspiration will drive me to better myself and my art. I remember when I got my first art car commission and built it out of nimby, you were there to inspire me to go beyond the clients expectations and exceed my own imagination. Tom, you will be missed, but our art will go on in your memory.
Justin Gray.
Tom,
Your enthusiasm and drive is an inspiration to all artists. I’ve always admired your passion as well as your ability to achieve your wildest dreams despite the obstacles. Riding around with you in Ripper through the streets of Houston is one of my favorite art car memories. Godspeed Tom.
Paul
My first memory of Burning Man is walking into a teeny art car camp in 1995 and meeting Tom and Shelley Buschur, his partner at the time. They welcomed me, introduced me to Ripper the Shark and their art car world, and then to the Art Car Parade in Houston in 1996. Tom was just stepping away from his newspaper job back then and talked about what held meaning and purpose for him – and it wasn’t reporting! It was gifting the world with his mad, inventive creations and thereby expanding the lives of those around him. Thank you, Tom, for all the wonderful vehicles you gave us and for all your passion and generosity.
Let’s remember that when we wake every morning, there’s no guarantee that we’ll see the sunset….all is so fragile…..
As I am looking through my files for images of Tom, I am feeling very sad but also very fortunate to have had the opportunity to know Tom and to have been witness to his life. The memory that keeps on pop-ing up for me is the performance piece that he and flash did in BayView after we toured Al Honig’s studio during ART CAR Fest . It must have been 2006. We were all going back to our cars when an altercation began between a mundane and an art car (Tom’s) – it got insane rather quickly and became a car fight to the death. At first no one was sure what was happening. An innocent mundane with passengers got into a fight with a big evil art car. It took a few crashes of the cars into each other to realize that this was a planned event. Still everyone was watching with their mouths open in amazement and amusement.
Bye Tom – I hope that the ceilings in heaven are high enough for you.
luv
suzun
I will hold dear and cherish the memories of Tom in my heart, all the adventures, experiences, common political ideals and shared creative moments since I first met him in 1998. Words fail me to describe the true, positive enlightened creative spirit he was in life. The world has lost a true artist although he lives on now through his work, his fantastic artcars as well the work of his wonderful gifted artist wife, Haideen……. thoughts and strength to her at this time. Tears in my eyes…….
Much Love and Respect,
Dan Macchiarini
I met Tom at the 2004 Republican National Convention. I had just joined the Missile Dick Chicks, and spent the whole week with them, staying at a Chick’s “ranch.” I witnessed Tom fall in love with Haideen. It was the start of a storybook romance, the two of them met while doing what they were most passionate about: expressing themselves politically as artists. They were complete equals in spirit, energy and strength of conviction and character.
We all slept on the floor at night, some people having known each other for a long time. I had not even know many of these activists real names, we hadn’t ad time, we were out singing and dancing and performing in character, until we were completely exhausted each night.
I noticed them trying to sleep next to each other, their sweet little advances… and recognized their strong connection. Tom and some of the San Francisco kids were arrested in a sweep, and no one felt that blow more tan Haideen. Everyone came together in such an intense way during that time…. and these two amazing soul mates found each other.
We Missile Dick Chicks have had an amazing journey with Tom and Haideen. Over this past summer, I was able to go on two incredible adventures to the Art Car Parade in Houston and the two conventions. Just the thought of being on that Missile Dick Truck, with the hydrolic missile sends chills up my spine. Not only did our beautiful friend Haideen, a kick ass leader and artist in her own right, meet the creative soulmate of a lifetime. But he had now made a moving stage for us to perform on, with a huge, glorious silver missile! I treasure the feeling of love and support I received from that gesture. He bent over backwards to get those trips to happen and it was all so we could create together, live together, sharing everything from food and drinks, to pain, arguments, ultimately laughter, and tactile LIFE as it is meant to be lived.
We should all aspire to be as brave and creative as Tom Kennedy, in our own individual ways and find a way to bring these gifts out and share with our communities. This is hard, imperfect work. He knew that. But mostly, he knew how to love.
I tell jokes and entertain but never laugh, except when I think of a one eyed cyclops car that shoots twinkies 100 feet into a crowd of unsuspecting ‘Normal Car’ drivers…
Man this HURTS!!!!
Cosmic RAY
Dear Tom
We know in our minds that all great deeds are accomplished while standing on the shoulders of people like yourself. The unconditional generosity and loving support that you shared with us will be in our hearts forever. Somewhere in the hereafter an Artcar Parade just received it’s Grand Master.
Thank You, Brother
Dale
Of all the incredible people I have had the joy of getting to know in San Francisco, few if any have been as consistent a source of inspiration as Tom Kennedy. It would be hard to underestimate how often I’ve thought to myself “I ought to be more like Tom.” i.e.-
“I ought to live my beliefs.”
“I ought to go ahead and do it, no matter what kind of obstacles are in my path.”
“I ought to see the best in the people around me.”
“I ought to see the best in my own life.”
“I’ve got to keep improving my craft, for my own sake.”
“I ought to celebrate whimsy.”
“I ought to build community with everything I do.”
“I ought to spread the word.”
Now, I can only try to live the life his example always pushed me to live. The world is a better place because of the life he lived.
-Mike Prados
Tom Kennedy was an amazing force. So much life. So much energy. So much imagination and creativity. So much love. I can’t believe he’s gone! I don’t believe he’s gone…. He is not gone! He lives on in that part of us that he touched, affected, inspired. I feel that part of me amplified and overflowing with love right now as I write this. My heart aches for the loss, but my heart swells from the gift that he has given us all.
Tom and his art cars inspired me as well.
Seeing the Whale chase down la contesa was just awesome and I knew then I wanted to give that same experience to 10’s of thousands of other people.
If it wasnt for his work the Cheshire Cat wouldnt have existed.
Thank you Tom.
From one gental giant to another we will all have a hard time taking up where you left off.
Tom was a friend, a diplomat, and an inspiration.
I remember the first time Tom and I had a real conversation. We were on a beach in Santa Cruz with Jewelz, somewhere around 2002 I would guess. He introduced himself and I told him I knew who he was, he said “uh oh” cuz he knew i was a Black Rock Ranger back then and knew I probably knew him from his shenanigans, which was true. He was always had such a great sense of humor.
Of course I have always admired his work over the years. I got a good look at the craftsman ship that went into Marian’s Cat Car because I installed a stereo in it, including a CD that played cat sounds and cat music. I was really amazed at the details that went into it and how he integrated the car into the cat so well!
Tom was a great diplomat working between the BRC DMV and the Art Car community when their needs were conflicting. I deeply appreciated his enduring positive attitude.
Recently we had been talking about making an art car together for my mother. I was really excited about the idea of working with the master, and a chance to get to know him better. He did so much for so many people. His passing leaves a big void in the world.
odwally
Tom Kennedy and his amazing visions will be missed – but his life and art will live on in all of us.
Keep the faith (burner faith)
Brotherluv
Tom was generous, love-infused and light-filled. His art was imbued with the spirit of a gentle man on fire with making the world a better place.
My heart is with all of you.
Susan
Tom was one bitchin’ dude. I was honored he asked me to paint on a couple of his vehicles. To be a small part of his incredible life and adventures. It was fantastic having him at the 1998 Madcap Motorcade here in Portland, he won best of show with the giant fin van. What a character. Once I was driving down 205 in Portland doing my usual antics when Tom drove up alongside me. We both pulled over right there on the freeway, we shared updates and some sculptures, then we both went our way. I miss him.
It was 1994, my first year on the playa, and my friend Frank’s too. He brought a pair of snow skis, and a hyper kite. He decided to allow the wind to pull him on his skis across the playa. I recall a number of hours later, when I saw an art car pulling him on his skis, and Tom chasing him with Ripper The Friendly Shark. Too damn funny. I may have video of this. I’ll check.
Jump to 1996, and I’m hanging out at my station, Radio Free Burning Man one evening, when some ornery art car chick comes driving up in a true beater “art car”, which truly had no credible artiness to it at all; just some paint splashed on it, and some plastic crap glued on, arbitrarily. She was told not to park there by many people, including those in command of the camp. And of course she parked right in front of RFBM. We were making fun of her and her beatermobile. Seriously, this was no artcar. It was as if she wanted to fit in with the art car crowd, so she threw a bunch of crap on it so she could camp with them.
She flipped us off, and proceeded to run into the evening crowd. It appears that she had just arrived, and wanted to get partying right away.
Now, I don’t know how this happened, seriously, but within an hour or so, I noticed that all four of her tires were flat. She may have driven up that way for all I know. At the same time, we at RFBM, were on the air poking serious fun at this wannabe (no offense to said wannabe 13 years later. it was all in the spirit of pranksterism).
The next morning when she arrived back to claim her shitmobile, she noticed the flat tires, and blamed the people closest to the “car”, which would be us at RFBM. It was also now covered in something, but I cannot recall what.
She proceeded to go over to the art car camp and get all the art cars to “attack” RFBM. Many of us at RFBM, chose to poke a lot of fun at the art car crowd. Within 10 minutes RFBM was surrounded by about 20 art cars. With Ripper the Not-So-Friendly-Shark in the lead (he can get angry when he wants to). The began blasting their outward speaker systems toward the radio station. We were live on the air, but could not even hear ourselves think.
I took the brave move and stepped outside. I was greeted by many “boo’s”. I smiled my way through all of this. After what appeared to be an eternity of art cars-attacking-pirate-radio-station, Tom approached me (I may have approached him actually. It’s been a while). We agreed to step inside and talk this over, while on the air. We got a mediator, whom I believe was Michael Michael (aka: M2, or Danger Ranger). We had a long discussion on the air, live, about what brought on this stand off between art cars and the pirate radio station. We eventually all agreed that the chick who owned the art car outside was a tool, and the art car camp would not support a tool.
Tom and I shook hands, embraced, and chose to celebrate this new relationship with a drink or 20.
I loved his spirit for pranksterism. He had a child-like heart, and a wonderful wit. It was never about what he had done. It was always about what fun there is to come.
There is much more fun to come. We’ll always save a parking space for you, Tom.
Much love to you and everyone…even that chick with the crappy art car (no offense…seriously).
We lost a wonderful artcar artist, activist, all-round awesome human being.
Tom, I wish I had known you better, mate, every time I got to see you was always fun and inspiring
I will always remember artcar demoltion derby.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RTEo4mCBq0o
this is really nice to see. i’m kind of a extended family member. tom is my aunts-through-marriage older brother whom i really don’t remember meeting but i’m sure i did at the wedding. this is fun to read about him and nice to read all the replies. thanks.
I was with Art Car friends Philo Northrup, Mrs. Northrup, & Kelly, in Vegas watching a sleazy surf band and sexy Go-Go Girls, when we heard the news. Mr. Northrup summed it up nicely when he said: “This is what Tom is seeing right now!” Tom’s philosophy and the way he lived his life made it easier for those of us left in his wake to accept the unacceptable. That boy packed a lot of livin’ into his brief existence.
Rev. C. E. Linville
I was a Missile Dick Chick with Tom. When he came to New York in 2004 for the Republican National Convention (giving up Burning Man that year?) I noticed how he really seemed to respect what the Chicks were doing and tried to learn from us. Little did I know how much I would have to learn from him. Out-takes and rough footage from the documentary “Trail of Feathers: The Missile Dick Chicks Take on America” are being made available for people to see Tom in that environment. The first link is http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZxFp0HcJaU and there will more to come this week. Thanks to filmmaker Randi Cecchine for releasing the footage. My deepest condolences to all Tom’s community.
The sadness of the this news is overwhelming, I can not believe he is gone.
But what a great time we had, building sculptures, creating artcars, setting fires ( some a bit out of control.. lol.. OK, they were all out of control). Every time I crossed paths with tom over the years was a memorable time.
I had the honor of teaching Tom how to weld. When he picked up the torch for the first time (every time), it was like watching a kid in a candy store.
I know now as I hear his voice in my head, telling me to stop crying and to get back in studio and make some art. That he will always be within us.
Time to turn my new truck into an artcar, maybe some shark Fins.
I love and miss you Tom.
Welcome aboard the bus everybody… “our lady of what we all have in common” – our connection through Tom Kennedy.
Like beads on a necklace, Tom is the thread woven through us, that brings us all together.
This thought brings me some solace amidst such a profound loss.
Lots of love on this bus.
So sad to see Tom go…. the world won’t be the same without him.
Besides enriching the art scene world-wide, he was also a great supporter of other artists. He could be the most outrageous performer, as well as the most attentive audience. When he talked with me (or anyone), I always felt like he was totally present. Not given to distractions (though there were many), he gave me/you his all. He was very generous with his time as well. One time I was in a car accident and was unable to throw a birthday party for my daughter the next day. Tom (and Gretchen Baer) came to the rescue and picked up my daughters and their friends from school in Tom’s art car The One-Eyed Wonder. He took them up to the highest house on the hill in Bisbee where they shot twinkies out of the one-eyed missile shooter. Who knows where those twinkies landed! The girls loved the sheer ridiculousness of it. Years later, I took Tom to the Airplane Graveyard in Tucson, where airplanes go to die. Tom was in heaven amongst all these salvaged airplane parts. He got a good deal on some wings…. and strapped them on the top of his car. He had decorated his “too normal for Tom” car with some glittered writing on the hood. It said LOVE UNCONDITIONAL and that’s the last image I have of Tom…taking off for the next big adventure, with glitter flying in the air, and wings strapped on. Godspeed, good friend.
This is so sad. He & his art will be missed. I had the great fortune to first meet Tom in 1994 out in the black rock. Ripper was one of the most incredible art cars I’d seen at that point. Tom was just getting started…
What an amazing inspiration Tom has been and will continue to be.
Everytime I crossed paths with him was such an uplifting experience.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Haideen, Tom’s family and friends.
Here are pix of his beloved Ripper, Max, and at the helm of the T111….
http://www.home.earthlink.net/~traubleaux/html/tom_kennedy.html
I knew Tom when he was at the Houston Chronicle. We were all part a team working together for a lot of years, a big family. We all worked hard and partied together but Tom was always more comfortable in T-shirts doing works for good than in his suit trying to justify quarterly budgets. He had his degree from U of H and even tried going back for his Masters but decided on Art more than Business. He followed his dream.
Last night in the Heights I was walking my dog and ran into a neighbor and Art Car owner and we talked about Tom for a while. I was feeling pretty blue and thought how nice it was for someone else to share that with. Tom had a way of bringing people together.
My heart goes out to all his extended family. Love, Honi
I was fortunate enough to spend quite a bit of time with Tom when he was staying in Bisbee, AZ, in 2001? 2002? Tom was, really, the best company. I was honored to be able to drive the One Eyed Wonder in the 4th of July Parade while he drove Ripper the Shark, altho I seem to remember we just called it the Eyeball Car. Kate, Gretchen and other artcarartists were also in the parade. I was also got to spend some time with him in Portland and Tucson, and the last time I saw him in Douglas, not long after he got married.
We spent several weeks in Bisbee working on a plan to drive Ripper through Bosnia and other Eastern European countries, using Ripper The Friendly Shark as an ice-breaker to bring a sense of peace and fun to areas that had recently been torn apart by a series of civil wars. This was something that Tom believed in in an instinctual, deeply felt way. There was no show-boating about the guy, just a huge amount of natural ebullience and joy of living. The plan, as it was concieved, sort of fizzled after Bush started the war in Iraq. Although it was probably needed more then than ever, somehow it took the air out of our sails–at least for the time being.
Three memories:
*Tom driving One Eyed Wonder to Tucson to see the great Czech band Uz Jsme Doma and blowing everyone’s mind out in front of the Solar Culture Gallery when we let loose with the fire canon, sending sheet of flame 20 feet out of the back (or was it front?) of the car. Yeeeh haw!
*Shooting twinkies out of the twinkie mortar installed in One Eyed Wonder on the 4th of July in Bisbee, one of which hit a woman in a fast moving wheel chair who happened to drive straight into the path of an 50 yard, arcing, fast-moving desert cake. Kasplatt!! Tom, naturally, charmed her and made her realize that she hadn’t been an actual target.
*Blasting through a roll of film of Ripper being loaded onto a semi in Bisbee, on its way to a shipping container, in route to France. Photos are around…somewhere. Tom was giddy, and a bit nervous, and we toasted Ripper’s journey with mid-day beers.
Anyone that knew Tom knew how he made people happy just by showing up. He had that effect on people–instant levity. All of you art car people out there know this, but it doesn’t hurt to say it: art cars make people smile. Pretty much all people, as far as I can tell. Time spent with Tom and his cars meant being surrounded by happy, smiling people. That was an incredible gift that he possessed, and the memory of how happy he was the last time I saw him, in Douglas, after getting married will forever be my last visual memory of Tom. It was perfect, fitting and, like the man himself, perfectly real.
Carl Hanni, Tucson, 4/15/09
To the poet who can make manifest his vision, and share it with a thousand others. Not only words, but melting and twisting metal, taking seriously the fleeting muse and forming it for all to form their own lasting poems…
Whales chasing ships in the dust. Forever.
Much love,
Elise
A brilliant legacy and beautiful spirit.
I really don’t know what to say, I’m in shock.
What can be said that hasn’t already been said? What does one say at a time like this? Sometimes silence is the only option – sometimes it helps us to focus. I met Tom in Houston, 1998, and again in 2000. He was the embodiment of a gentle man, with the heart and soul of a child, not afraid to speak his mind or take a stand for what he thought was right., all the while following visions of color, shape and harmony and laughter. Swim Tom. Swim deep with the dolphins, the sharks and the elusive creatures of the deeps. Swim close to the surface where the moonlight and the sunlight play and dance – go quietly, go far. Your spirit is manifest.
I’ve known him for 15 years and I am completely devastated and shocked. He was an incredible person on so many levels that I can’t even put into words. We are all very lucky to have been a part of his life and this is such a terrible loss for us and for the people he would have brought smiles to in the future.
The world still needs you Tom… I want to thank you because YOU really LIVED. YOU were an inspiration. I am sure where ever you are now you are doing the same :) keep smiling… I can hear you laughing now.
I am sorry that I am so far away and I just can’t make it to your memorials, please forgive me… I wish I had just one person here who knew you to share memories with. But you are in my heart always…. I am so sad, but I know you wouldn’t want that, so I will try to be ok and smile again soon.
Love, Cheri
I first met Tom in 1991 or 92 ? he was the first to make me feel welcome to the art car family . He was the life of the party. One fond memory I have is when he and some volunteers came to my house in the suburbs in his school bus to deliver a trophy, I had no idea they were coming ,it
was quite a site and a nice surprise. I remember when he moved to California feeling sad for our loss then, we were loosing our cheerleader. But happy for his new adventure. He did more in those few years than most do in a lifetime.
I was really proud of his Bosnia trip ! . This just ain’t right !!
Love ya Tom . Alex Harrah
We were in Vegas (with artcartists Rev. Charles & the Northrups) when we heard the news from Jim Skinner in Portland. It was incomprehensible! I’m numb, like everyone else, but reading through the tributes gets the tears flowing. Tom was absolutely beautiful in every aspect (noone’s stating the obvious, the man was GORGEOUS!). Physically, his spirit, his art, his drive all “Larger than Life” literally and figuratively. Jim Simmons called Tom a “god” amongst our tribe, but I preferred to think of him as our revered Homecoming King, the one all the women swooned over & all the men wanted to be. We were all universally thrilled when he found his Queen in Haideen, and seemingly his “Raison d’Etre” in politics and causes. They did the things we all talk about, spreading hard-driving messages with a spoonful of sugar.
One of my best memories is at Burning Man in ‘99 or so when the Rangers (or Nevada cops?) were trying to halt Artcars speeding across the playa (some interlopers had been executing dangerous stunts, one broke an arm jumping car to car). Tom was intervening – a giant swathed in Bandoliers of bullets (we were ‘disgruntled postal workers’) . As our spokesman he was placating the lawmen with “…but Artcars are the peaceful ones…”, the juxtaposition tickled my funny bone. Another memory is being hit by the One-Eyed Wonder’s Twinkie launcher in the astrodome just before he shot the remote controlled plane down (& a spoof lawsuit ensued). Tom’s fireworks hats. Too many fun memories to list. OK, it’s a reminder to get away from the computer & go have some fun, life is short but oh so sweet…
Kelly
Tom Kennedy was a great friend and a brother. We shared many adventures some of which involved Skinner’s bowling ball cannon.
Some involved rolling in his art car creations. Some involved alternative planes of perception. Some just involved the simplicity of just hanging out. I am devastated by the loss.
Over the past few years, I have periodically been a guest at the house of Flash, Dana, Tom, Haideen, and Chris DeMonteray. It’s been my San Francisco home. Each day waking up around there is an adventure. You never know what you are in for. I have many funny stories but this is not the time or the place. The most important part of the experience revolved around the breakfast table, and the morning ritual of toast, thanks to Chris. Invariably the conversations at this breakfast table with any combination of the residents were beyond platinum. Sometimes they were very heated, most of the time hilarious and all of the time provocative as we shared our various war stories, rants, dreams and perceptions. Most of the time Tom was there and now I’m very sad that I won’t experience this in the same way again.
Tom was a man amongst men, and his death has so deeply impacted so many from our wonderful community of oddballs
misfits and broken toys… ah hem… artists, pranksters, and cacophonists.
My deepest condolences go out to Haideen, unquestionably Tom’s best friend, a lovely spirit and general over all wonderful woman. I can not possibly say enough good about them both.
My heart goes out to Flash, Dana, Haideen, Chris, Tom’s mother, and pretty much everyone else devastated by Tom’s passing. I am
completely floored by the kind words and impact that Tom has
had on so many.
It’s been incredibly spaced out all week over this monumental loss
while digging through my vast and unwieldy archives for images,
video, & memories. It’s like I’ve been tripping Tom, and quite the emotional roller coaster.
Here’s a link:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/99773174@N00/sets/72157616648137595/
Watch the short videos for an extra special dose of the Tom Kennedy whimsy.
Full fins ahead, I’ll see you in the next dimension Tom
I will miss you Tom..even .though you left Houston some time ago it was like you were just here … always good to see him each time I was with him it was an adventure…
Burningman ..the first actual test ride of the whale
later the Contessa– Whale–Iron Maiden waltz on the playa
Righting a Raul wrong for Pepper
Fireball at Red Ranch ( even though we set the kid on fire)
The cross bow pilot with Scrap daddy
Knocking down that remote control plane…with a twinkie… in the Asrodome
Your telling me what a gifting economy was
That crazy bus ride after the illumnated cruise after party
Your Booming Doc-ter Jack-son each time we would meet
Walking through Sue’s hippo farm over 300 she says
The die in front of the TV station to stop a war
That one-eye fez cap I gave your because it fit your Onee-eyed wonder Nash and how it now peers back at me through your pictures now
Yours was the safest bear hug I have ever had
Yeah I called you today ..hoping to hear your voice… and I woke Flash up..sorry Flash ,..thanks for sharing with me so early this morning…I will be you and the others in spirit since I can not be with you to celibrate the life of and mourn the passing of a generous heart and an inspiration to us all
Missing you just doesn’t seem to say it all..since it feels like our journey was incomplete … Farewell brother, teacher, artist , friend
I guess I will have to finally read that book you told me about
Tom made me discover the hidden side of Burning Man, and guided me through the making of the film “Dust & Illusions”, in which he is the narrator. Bringing criticism about Burning Man has not been an easy task, and I have more often found blind rejection rather than interest in it. Tom, with his sharp eye about our human condition, has kept pushing me to move forward and help finalized the film with the voice-over. I am very grateful for his generosity all along the way.
The film will be showing on May 2nd as a benefit for Tom’s memorial on May 1st: http://dustandillusions.com/blog/special-screening-in-san-francisco-may-2nd-2009
“If you only help others…” Tom Kennedy pours beans in to my coffee grinder, cocks his head, gives me a sideways grin, “…and don’t let yourself receive help…” The whirr of the grinder drowns the end of his sentence, but I know what he means. I’m feeling a little bad. I’m sitting at my kitchen table on the Tuesday morning after Labor Day, the second day of the Republican National Convention. For the last four days, the missile truck, the MDC bus and a dozen Missile Dick Chicks, have roosted at my suburban White Bear Lake house, swooping down on Minneapolis and St. Paul to taunt Republicans.
This morning, I hit my limit. There’s been no ultimatum, just a sense I woke with that my family, my neighbors and I had had enough. As we made the bed, I told my fella Allen what I was thinking. By the time I was out of the shower, Tom and Allen had it arranged. Now, the Chicks, the bus and the missile truck are packing up and moving on down the shore to finish out the Convention at my friend Larry’s house.
“I’m afraid I’m not holding up my part of the bargain,” I say, “expecting Larry to take up the slack.” Through the kitchen window, I watch the neighbor girls in their new clothes head off to the first day of school. In my yard, the big old MDC bus belches exhaust their way, while their mother, a middle-aged woman like me, casts a critical glance and gives me a forbearing nod. Soon I’ll be back to Minnesota mundane.
There’s plenty to do to move the Missile Dick crew, but Tom pours me more coffee and sits down to tell me a fable about asking for help. Tom’s story is about Bosnians, bridges and bikes. The cast of heroes includes a former girl friend, Shelly Buschur, the U.S. Air Force and a NATO commander from Northern Ireland. Did a kid’s bike parade create peace between Bosnians and Serbs? Tom doesn’t go that far. But the opportunity to pitch-in drew the best from everyone involved.
When the story is over, the bus has been packed and my living room floor is again innocent of cots. It’s clear, my concern for the convenience of my friend Larry, the next host to this troupe, is minor. In truth, I’m sad it’s over. “Our goal is to beat the bad guys by having more fun,” Tom had emailed me months ago as we were planning for the Republican Convention. Mission accomplished.
“Once everyone is gone,” says Tom as he hugs me good-bye, “a couple of us will come back and make sure it’s just like we found it. There’s red paint on your driveway. We’ll take care of that.” Like the Cat in the Hat when the mother comes back, all is in order when the bus and missile truck chug out of my yard.
A few days later, when they’re just about to head west to San Francisco, Tom calls to say he wants to come by and take care of the red paint. “Forget it,” I tell him. “Consider it a souvenir.” Now that Tom won’t be coming east again, with his head full of visions and his emails full of schemes and new refurbished hopes, life doesn’t offer as happy a prospect. What’s left is a passel of memories of when the circus stayed at my house and of Tom Kennedy, the best ringleader of them all. That, and a little red paint on my driveway, will have to be enough.
Ars Longa, Vita Brevis.
Obit in this morning’s LA Times:
http://www.latimes.com/news/obituaries/la-me-tom-kennedy21-2009apr21,0,2234068.story
Not knowing Tom or of his works and creations has been a serious loss on my part. I’m glad to have learned of him now though he does no more.
My heartfelt condolences to those who are most sad…treasure your memories.
Janine
My dear friend Tom, I cherish all the adventures I have been on with you! A very memorable journey was our time caravanning around in New York City with Max The Dare Devil Fin Mobile towing Ripper the Friendly Shark and my LOVE 23. We caused quite a stir in NYC got hired to have our cars be in a National Lampoon Swim Suit edition with models posing inside the shark’s mouth and driving my car, and Gene Poole riding around in his unicycle. Getting stopped by the police when you took Ripper off the trailer and drove it around the streets. When headed for Hellertown, Max was 3 inches too high to get thru the Lincoln Tunnel, going all the way around a different way thru Harlem. I just hung out with you 6 weeks before you left us, painting your missile red and the whole truck, you fell off a ladder and were sprayed with red paint, you threw away your cell phone with the red painted clothes. You were exciting and thrilling and positive, and I adored you! I feel such a loss in my heart and whole being, I am missing you so much. Haideen I am so glad that you two met, it was so beautiful to be around you together. Tom, thanks for 16 years of amazing friendship. The world lost a most amazing merry prankster and serious sculptor. I still think you’re going to come thru Bisbee and visit me again. I have been hearing your great laughter inside my head and in my dreams. Love to all the family and your 1,000’s of friends. xoKATE
One of my fondest memories is sitting in the Kitty Car watching the full moon eclipse in ‘07 — and then all the people running past as someone lit a torch to The Man. Such a lovely, peaceful and serene car. Perfect for that moment outside of Time
Thanks for the memories
peace & love
michael (coyote) in eugene
Tom, I you not ever I knew, I saw you for the first time in the commemoration that your friends did; I saw the video, the your friends. ..tutto a lot heard and near the ocean. You were an expensive friend of a mine expensive friend, a thing we have in commune I and you. …siamo native in 1960, year of transition between a past and a present one, we of that year with artistic gifts, poetic, original inventors and. … spericolati. ….. persdone that live at the utmost the life. You, now you are in the cosmoe see us, see the well in the all mondoe we. ……Ciao Tom, I am proud of to know you! M. Teresa
Goodbye Tom:
I had the honor of meeting tom in 2001 BurningMan and talking with him. I fondly remember Riding on Pepper Moser’s Roving living room and being chased and shot at by the Twinkie cannon. Enjoy your spiritual path into a higher plane.
DragonFyre
I’m very sad to hear about Tom passing away. His shark car made people happy!