Laurie Anderson Interview: Advice to the Young

“Be loose!” The legendary multimedia artist, musician and film director Laurie Anderson puts it as simply and clearly as that when she here advises artists to avoid being pressured into limiting themselves artistically.

Calling yourself something as “vague” as a multimedia artist – as Anderson does – gives you the freedom to do whatever you want, without having to worry about whether it fits a certain definition: “It’s so easy to get pigeonholed in the art world.” Anderson is aware that sales are a strong underlying factor – “I am a 21st century citizen in a highly corporate world” – but she nonetheless maintains that you should always follow your own interest and obsession: “Whatever makes you feel free and really good – that’s what to do. It’s really simple.”

Laurie Anderson was interviewed by Christian Lund at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Denmark in May 2016.

Camera: Rasmus Quistgaard
Edited by: Klaus Elmer Madsen
Produced by: Christian Lund
Copyright: Louisiana Channel, Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

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[alicat]

I really think she’s cool. She’s right about the art world. ‘’I’m an artist because I want to be free.” Awesome.

[Lululila]

she is such a pioneer. Been listening to her since the 80s and only found out about her through college public radio. Corporate radio wouldn't play her.

[sugarlove]

i love this woman always did and always will

[Rachelhkharp]

I. LOVE. Her. I've just listened to O Superman and i'm crying. This is so emotional! What an inspiring wonderful artist.

[sarataylor]

I met her years ago at the ICA in was a stupid student and I told her I loved her earlier work, therfore putting down what she was doing at the time. I would love to meet her tomorrow and tell her I love everything she does and then hug her.😍

[kelliemenendez]

"Whatever makes you feel free and really good, that's what to do!" Love.

[artteach]

Whatever makes you free...love you Lauie Anderson!!

[tomajortom]

Even just seeing her sparkling eyes got me inspired. A beautiful free soul.

[ceridwan]

Who knew I would have some alignment with 1 of my all time heroes, Laurie Anderson? To be free, to be porous to the Universe & the whispers of the Earth, to know birds better. Life is full & rich & I’m grateful to be alive while she’s on the planet & to have known her art & thoughts ❤️

[frankalfar]

The talent of human speech is a rare one but coupled w creativity, wordplay, art and music and performance is one of a kind.

[timallbritton]

A true artist. I've loved and respected her genius since I first saw Home of the Brave back in the 80s.

[oa]

I love you Laurie from the bottom of my soul and with all existance! You were my sufi! Thank you for all! Namaste :)

[lesakramer]

L. A. changed my life w/an understanding of how in a contemporary way was possible. Studying dead cool people was interesting, but then I heard you and art became amazing. Thank you, Laurie:) x.

[episodically]

"Don't be caught in that trap of definition, because it's a corporate tool" <3

[xeniadelfou]

LOVE YOU...LAURIE...since 1982[also sOw you in BADMINGTON theater in Athens-Greece.]...soooo lucky..!THANK YOU FOR ALL

[lolilo]

02:15 “I’m an artist because I want to be free” wow, this really hit me right in the feels :)

[Thunderstormwitch]

Laurie Anderson has always been such an inspiration! Being free is most certainly a destination that is good for the heart and mind.

[karenwhittaker]

What a beautiful grounded person you are, so refreshing to listen to-such a free spirit, so glad I rediscovered you, as it's been awhile since I heard your music.Your vibrancy is as beautiful as ever!

[andrewv.]

this is definitely true for writers as well. I can see genre as more of a marketing tool than something that really benefits the writer

[eolakestobblehouse]

Thanks, Laurie!!
I have sometimes thought it was impossible to do various styles as an artist if you want to succeed, and I just can’t stay in one style.