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American artist and musician (born 1947)

From Wikipedia

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Laurie Anderson, born Laura Phillips Anderson, is a pioneering American artist whose career defies easy categorization. A true polymath, she's renowned for her innovative performance art, groundbreaking electronic music, and compelling multimedia projects. This timeline highlights key moments in her life and career, showcasing her enduring influence on contemporary art and music.
Birth in Glen Ellyn, Illinois
June 5, 1947
Laura Phillips Anderson is born in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, to Arthur T. Anderson Jr. and Mary Louise (née Rowland). Growing up in a large family (she's one of eight children), her early life was filled with violin lessons and creative pursuits, laying the foundation for her future artistic explorations.
Studies Art History at Mills College and Columbia University
1960s
Anderson initially attends Mills College in California before transferring to Columbia University in New York, where she earns a B.A. in art history in 1969 and an M.F.A. in sculpture in 1972. This formal training provides her with a strong art historical context and sharpens her conceptual approach to artmaking, pushing her beyond traditional boundaries.
Emergence in the New York Art Scene
Early 1970s
Anderson becomes a prominent figure in the burgeoning New York downtown art scene. She experiments with performance art, creating pieces that incorporate language, technology, and her signature violin. These early performances often take place in unconventional venues, such as streets and lofts, emphasizing accessibility and audience engagement.
Release of "O Superman"
1981
Anderson achieves mainstream success with the release of "O Superman," a minimalist, spoken-word piece that unexpectedly climbs the pop charts. Its haunting melody, robotic vocals, and cryptic lyrics capture the anxieties and technological anxieties of the era, establishing Anderson as a unique voice in popular music.
Release of "Big Science" album
1983
Following the success of O Superman, Big Science is released. This album includes several works, but the title track is a standout in performance art and electronic music history. It is a complex mixture of instruments, vocals, and spoken word, representing Anderson's unique avant-garde style.
"Home of the Brave" Concert Film
1986
Anderson directs and stars in "Home of the Brave," a concert film that captures the energy and theatricality of her live performances. The film blends music, visuals, and storytelling, showcasing her innovative use of technology and her ability to create immersive and thought-provoking experiences for the audience.
Continues to Explore Multimedia Performance
Late 1990s
Anderson continues to create and tour with large-scale multimedia performances. Her work increasingly incorporates digital technology, exploring themes of communication, identity, and the impact of technology on human experience. Her collaborations with other artists and technologists expand the boundaries of performance art.
Marriage to Lou Reed
2002
Anderson marries legendary musician Lou Reed. Their relationship, marked by mutual respect and artistic collaboration, becomes a significant part of their lives. They support each other's creative endeavors and occasionally perform together. She was also a long-term romantic partner of the sculptor Robert Irwin.
"Heart of a Dog" Film
2015
Anderson directs "Heart of a Dog," a deeply personal and meditative film exploring themes of love, loss, and mortality. The film, inspired by the death of her dog Lolabelle and the passing of Lou Reed, combines animation, home movies, and philosophical reflections, earning critical acclaim and solidifying her reputation as a filmmaker.
Ongoing Artistic Practice and Advocacy
2020s
Anderson remains an active artist, continuing to create music, performances, and multimedia projects. She advocates for artists' rights, environmental protection, and social justice issues. Her enduring career demonstrates her commitment to pushing creative boundaries and using art as a force for positive change.

Other Themed Timelines

Collaborations and Guest AppearancesCollaborations and Guest AppearancesEarly Life and Education (1947-1972)Early Life and Education (1947-1972)Early Performance Art and Conceptual Works (1970s)Early Performance Art and Conceptual Works (1970s)Later Career and Recent Works (2010s-Present)Later Career and Recent Works (2010s-Present)Multimedia Projects and Film Work (1980s-2000s)Multimedia Projects and Film Work (1980s-2000s)Musical Career and 'O Superman' (1980s)Musical Career and 'O Superman' (1980s)Personal Life and RelationshipsPersonal Life and Relationships