For My Birthday?

This is my birthday weekend, and I have an ask.

Actually, I have a choice of asks. Don’t worry: one of them doesn’t cost anything.

OPTION ONE: JOIN OUR PATREON FOR FREE.

One year ago, we launched our Patreon.

Since then, we’ve published 77 posts and more than 25 hours of carefully created content: beautifully scanned pieces from the collection, interviews, videos, storytelling and exclusive livestreams.

That includes the Extremities and Flowers of Romance shows, the Twin Tribes event, stories from the days of EXIT and much more.

I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built, and I’d love you to experience it.

Unlike the traditional Patreon model where paying more unlocks more, ours is Pay What You Want. Everyone gets access to everything. You can join for $0, or contribute whatever feels right to you.

Already a member? Sharing it with one person who might enjoy the history, noise, stories and occasional distraction would be fantastic.

OPTION TWO: BECOME A MUSEUM FOUNDER

More than 1,600 people have already become Museum Founders and helped us build this strange, unlikely and increasingly important, magical place.

Founders receive free admission to the museum, discounts on selected events, and can bring a friend when they visit.

Plus, holy shit — you helped found a museum!

OPTION THREE: BUY THE SHIRT THAT DOESN’T EXIST

It costs $100.

It doesn’t exist.

We don’t have to manufacture it. We don’t have to mail it. You can’t wear it, spill anything on it or lose it in the laundry.

It’s simple and easy. A deliberately ridiculous way to support the museum.

In return, I get to tell my students about creativity, trust, community, perceived value and the person who bought a shirt that wasn’t there. (The shirt, not the person!)

Of course, there is a fourth option:

DO ALL THREE.

I’m very, very proud of the work we’ve done, humbled by everyone’s love and support, and delighted to have reached the age of 67 while still performing, creating things and making noise. There are more announcements coming very soon.

As always, please come and visit. The museum is exploding with stories and artifacts — and the surrounding Bridgeport neighborhood is pretty amazing too.

Thank you for helping to keep this (and me!) alive.

Stay Tuned.

 

Martin Atkins

Chicago, ILL-ANNOYS