ButtPrintArt.com is the online portfolio of a visual artist
Title
Butt-Printing Artist - Stan Murmur © 1997,2000, 2001 and beyond
Description
Stan Murmur creates "anthropometric monotypes" using the human body as a stamp.
Stan Murmur Controversy
Stan Murmur [Conceptual Artist 1972- ] attracted international attention after Chesterfield County Public Schools in Chesterfield County Virginia publicity announced that an art teacher in their system had been placed on administrative leave, for art activities done outside of school.
Stephen Murmer, an art teacher at Monacan High School, was suspended from his post when school officials revealed that he paints floral and abstract artwork using his buttocks and genitalia under the pseudonym Stan Murmur.
Murmer, a Marine Corps veteran and teacher of the year, offers pieces called "Anthropometric Monotypes" at the Internet website ButtPrintArt.com. The Monotypes are acrylic on canvas and sell at prices from $400 to $2,100. A video demonstration of Murmer's unique technique is on YouTube, also on the Internet. The video was apparently originally part of a segment of Unscrewed with Martin Sargent that was filmed several years prior to 2006. Fans of the canceled cable television show posted it on YouTube.
Although administrative officials of the school system had investigated his activities in 2004, it was not until late 2006 that the issue resurfaced and Murmer faced reprimand. Murmer was told, following his suspension, not to speak to the media. Chesterfield County Schools spokeswoman Debra Marlow stated that a teacher was placed on administrative leave because of the way he does his art and that teachers are required to set an example for students.
Many have noted, however, that Murmer went to lengths to conceal his identity. He is shown in the video clip wearing a fake nose and glasses, and calls himself "Stan Murmur" online.
In the days following his suspension, outraged students called the news department of a local television station, and asked them to feature the story. The station complied, and the news media from far away quickly focused on the story.
Murmer was subsequently fired from his teaching post. He publicly stated that teaching was very important to him and that he wanted to let his students know how much he appreciated them. He hopes to teach in the future.
On Jan. 20, 2007, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) board members voted to take on Stephen Murmer's case. The Associated Press reported that the ACLU was seeking volunteer lawyers and considering whether to appeal the School Board's decision to a state circuit court or to file suit in federal district court on constitutional grounds. The ACLU has condemned Chesterfield County's School Board for their actions, stating that Murmer's activities are an expression of his First Amendment Rights. ACLU representatives have said that had Chesterfield County Schools not suspended Murmer, the issue would have blown over within a few days.
Languages
English
Address
- , USA
Additional Information
Related Domains
External Links
- Alexa: ButtPrintArt.com
