That Was the Answer: Interviews with Ray Johnson

Edited by Julie J. Thomson. Interviews with David Bourdon Jr., Sevim Fesci, Richard Bernstein, John Held Jr., Diane Spodarek, Randy Delbeke, Richard Pieper, Henry Martin, Sydne Didier, Weslea Sidon, Shirley Samberg, Clive Phillpot.

This book brings together a selection of eleven interviews and conversations from 1963 to 1987 that offer unique access to Johnson’s distinctive thinking and working methods. Throughout, Johnson's responses are marked by his humor and close attention to language. Ray Johnson was born in Detroit and he attended Black Mountain College before moving to NYC where his work was active in early Fluxus circles. Best known for his mail art and collages, he operated fluidly in a wide range of modes- his life and work were inextricably linked.

Editor Julie J. Thomson is an independent scholar and curator who lives in Durham, NC.

Soberscove Press, 2018

7” x 8.5”

198 pgs