Archivio Conz

Bern Porter (1911, in Porter Settlement, Maine – 2004, in Belfast, Maine) was an American artist, writer, and physicist who became a prominent figure in the avant-garde and Fluxus movements. Best known for his innovative works in mail art, found poetry, and collage, Porter’s practice challenged traditional notions of art by using everyday materials and recontextualizing them into new, often humorous, or provocative forms. His work was deeply influenced by the experimental and conceptual approaches of the time, and he was involved in many groundbreaking art movements that questioned the role of the artist and the viewer. One of Porter’s most well-known pieces is "Found Poem" (1948), a work created by collecting random words and phrases from discarded materials, transforming them into a poetic statement. Another notable work is "The Invention of the Gallery", which used found objects to critique the traditional gallery system, reflecting his anti-establishment stance. Porter also contributed to the Fluxus movement, participating in mail art exchanges and performances that emphasized audience participation and the fusion of life and art. His work was displayed in several prestigious exhibitions, including those at the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Whitney Museum of American Art. He also had exhibitions at the Berkeley Art Museum and was featured in the Fluxus Festival in the early 1960s, further cementing his role in the avant-garde community. Throughout his career, Porter maintained a unique position within the art world, combining his background in science with his artistic practices to create works that bridged the gap between logic, absurdity, and creativity. His legacy continues to influence artists working in the realms of conceptual art, experimental media, and interdisciplinary practices.