A Rousing Toast, and Then

A moment of silence, please, for the passing of 66Balmy gallery.

John and Andi and Oscar, when the gallery was still located at 66 Balmy Alley, took me under their loving and slightly damp wings and gave me my first group, and then solo, shows. Which, as we know from hindsight, led to wild success, fur-covered limos, etc.

Later, after the gallery moved to Guerrero street for good, kindly and wise Jim gave me good solid advice and midwifed the birth of "James Barnett," artiste. It was a little weird to appear out from under El Rey's 10-gallon hat, but success came there as well.

I thank and salute you all.