From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Tue Feb 1, 2005 2:07:08 AM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, Martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Long-awaited same-sex marriage legislation comes before Commons on Tuesday, Le juge Gomery annoncera mardi s’il reste ou démissionne de la Commission
Dear Paul,
Guess what today is? Aside from being the first day back at H of C for you, it is (now was) the 1-year anniversary of my very last day of work at Ye Old Khyber. I realized this as I was in the middle of my second beer at a bar called le Salon Vert on St. Laurent, a bar that looks and feels very much like the old Khyber Club. Drinking on a Monday night with a bunch of transplanted Haligonians might have had something to do with that reminiscing as well. In a few days it is Chris’s birthday, a girl I met in Halifax with her partner Shawn, the animator (and 3-time Genie award winner). I found out about the place and the event (Shawn playing records, Chris’ B-day), from Andrew F., whom I ran into at Patati Patata while having supper with Clo. Small world, from time to time. Met some other artists and had a very pleasant and sociable evening. But my question to you is: what the hell am I doing drinking beer and staying out until 2am when I start a new job in less than six hours?? What am I thinking? Oh yeah, I broke up with Vincent today (by telephone, I’m a chickenshit, I’ll admit it), and I have to admit I felt a bit bad about it. Poor guy. He has such a hard time keeping employees. Maybe if he didn’t yell all the time? He seemed to take the news well, with a resignation in his voice.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Wed Feb 2, 2005 7:02:29 AM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Gay marriage bill sows division, sparks charges of political strong-arming, Ottawa présente son projet de loi légalisant le mariage et le divorce gais
Dear Paul,
First day back at Barat St. went OK. I didn’t paint a whole lot, mostly sanded. Overheard a bizarre (to me) conversation with the owner’s accountant and whom I can only presume to be the owner’s banker. It seems that the regular monthly installment of $100,000 into the checking account just wasn’t enough to cover the bills this month; could another $100,000 be deposited? Right away? Thanks. “Oh, what a traumatic day”. The designer was consoling the accountant as if someone had died (a cheque had bounced last week). I’m sorry, trauma? What trauma? When you can call your banker and have a hundred grand immediately dumped into your account, that’s traumatic?
So even though I leave work at 4:30 (grâce a commencement a huit heure), I was still an hour late for class. Had to drop off my rent on the way home. I was exhausted throughout class. Picked up some groceries on the way home, had a shower, and went to bed early. Didn’t paint at all, though I spent some time looking at the orange bleeding that happened over the lettering when I added varnish to one of them. Trying to figure out what to do next.
Sometimes it seems that the rich and the poor, even though they may exist quite close to one another and appear to be on the same plane of reality, actually live in completely different worlds. What is your take on string theory?
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Fri Feb 4, 2005 12:06:43 AM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Minority Liberals set budget for Feb. 23, face first big milestone, Ralph Goodale annonce que le budget sera déposé le 23 février
Cher Paul,
Je suis fatigué. Trop. C’est a cause du la huit hiere commencement au travail. Puis, parceque je finissais a 4:30, j’arrivais a mon cours a bon heure. Quatre heures c’est longue! Je suis un peu stressé ce soir. Il faut que je prepare quelque choses pour le fin semaine a Baie-St-Paul; le panneau et des peintures, aliments, vetements, etc. Puis, mon apartement c’est vraiment paigaille. Si j’avais plus de temps, il sera propre tout les temps. Puis, si j’avais plus de temps, j’aurais fait completer mes peintures pour mon prochain exposition.
Je vais t’ecrire dimanche soir, ou lundi jour, quand nous revendrons de Baie-St-Paul.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Sun Feb 6, 2005 10:35:35 PM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: PM’s Quebec lieutenant says Gomery inquiry ‘water torture’ for Liberal brand, La Commission Gomery est un “soap” qui fait mal aux libéraux, admet Lapierre
Dear Paul,
Had a restful weekend in Baie-St-Paul. A little more restful than planned; I was going to work on a painting. I had prepared the panel, packed my paints and brushes. Clo and Janine picked me up Friday evening and I remembered everything, deciding not to bring my computer or notebooks because, hey, I was going to paint all weekend while the girls skied. We stopped to get Caroline and while I was re-packing the trunk to make room. I put the panel on the roof of the car. Can you guess where I am heading with this? We drove off with the panel on the roof. I wonder how long it stayed there? The newspaper image, from November 14 2003, was taped to the panel. Remember that date? It was the day before you officially took over as Liberal party leader. Hasn’t been much of a party for you since then, has it? Especially lately. This should be a fun week, with Mr. Chrétien, your long-time nemesis, taking the stand at the sponsorship inquiry. Anyway, needless to say I was a little peeved at myself for losing my homework. But the weather was nice and we had good food and drank many bottles of wine. Caroline read out Tarots, the first time ever for me. The fresh air was amazing and the sounds of the ice cracking on the river was magical. A good rest. Tomorrow is my “work” day, I will be hitting the library at Concordia for research, getting some supplies, running some errands and meeting Nathalie to discuss TRAFIC and later, after my class, Melissa to discuss our show on April 1. At some point need to figure out all the logistics for shipping the paintings to Calgary.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Mon Feb 7, 2005 11:15:40 AM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Child care changing in Canada, says study by Statistics Canada, La Commission Gomery est un “soap” qui fait mal aux libéraux, admet Lapierre
Dear Paul,
Are you really sure you wouldn’t like me to paint your portrait? You might want to reconsider, especially in light of the fact that you might not last too much longer as PM, unless Jean doesn’t totally screw you or you manage to pull a rabbit out of your arse during your testimony in front of Gomery. And the budget miraculously passes. But I digress; I received your official rejection to my proposal to become your official portrait painter. Just in case you didn’t see the actual letter, I’m reproducing it below:
February 3, 2005
Dear Mr. Lloyd,
On behalf of the Right Honourable Paul Martin, we would like to acknowledge receipt of your correspondence dated December 30, 2004.
The Prime Minister has asked me to thank you for your kind proposal to paint his official portrait. Although he regrets not being able to accept this offer at this time, please be assured that we will keep your portfolio on file for future reference.
Thank you for writing to the Prime Minister.
Sincerely,
Lynne Carrière
Special Assistant – Correspondence
Anyway, I had a productive morning, drove Claudine to work in the Old Port district, went to Concordia and illicitly utilized the microfilm services in the library and tracked down the images I needed. The photocopies are poor quality but I should be able to reproduce them as colour paintings with little difficulty. I’ll just use my imagination.
Off to get groceries and hopefully find a nice birthday gift for Claudine.
Oh, and just in case you were wondering, the poutine at McDonald’s tastes lame, and the proceeding twelve hours painful.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd6627@yahoo.ca>
Date: Tue, 08 Feb 2005 10:14:13 -0500 (EST)
To: paul martin <martin.p@parl.gc.ca>, paul martin <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Cc: chrislloyd@videotron.ca
Subject: Former Prime Minister Jean Chretien begins testifying at sponsorship inquiry Pelletier nie une ingerence indue dans les commandites sauf pour des cravates
Dear Paul,
Je suis en bon sante. Ce matin j’ai recu des resultants a l’acturl clinique.Ni hepatite B ou C, ni chlamydia. ni syphilis, ni VIH. C’etait de bonnes nouvelles. Mais, les condylomes persistait. Je trouvais deux nouvelles en fin de semaine. C’etait un bon chose que je couperais mes poiles. Ils y a difficile pour trouve. Encore avec les traitment! Dix dollars encore!
Just cashed my cheque at a stupid Money Mart. I have an appointment with the National Bank on Thursday. A local bank account would be a big improvement in my life. I’m not, however, holding my breath.
Anyway, time at the internet cafe is almost up, and I’d best get to work.
-chris
Post your free ad now! Yahoo! Canada Personals
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Wed Feb 9, 2005 9:41:37 PM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Canada complicit in detention, abuse of teen at Guantanamo Bay, lawyers say, Le témoigne coloré de Chrétien a la Commission Gomery fait jaser
Dear Paul,
Wow, Chrétien really took centre stage at the inquiry. There are great photos of him on the front pages of all the papers. Too bad he’s no longer PM; they would make great paintings. Hopefully there will be some nice ones of you tomorrow, or the next day. i might be able to squeeze them into the show. How are the paintings coming along, you ask? Why, slowly but surely. Emphasis on slowly. Commute, work, commute, eat, class, feed cat, brush cat, clean litter box, prepare food, sleep, commute, work…The cycle leaves little time for making paintings. Tonight I left class early so I could come home and have a shower and clean up a little before meeting Claudine at a friend’s house to celebrate Chinese New Year. I found time after work and before class to check out the sales at Simonds; found a few shirts at great deals, even for my budget. Who am I kidding, I have no budget. I just happen to have some money in my pocket. I’m having supper with Claudine and her parents tomorrow night. I felt I could use some new duds. I’m a bit nervous. My french isn’t up to snuff. Gotta go, or I’ll be late. Rush rush, name of the game.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Fri Feb 11, 2005 12:11:10 AM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, Martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Sponsorship inquiry wraps up first phase, Martin says he was in the ‘no’, Martin répète qu’il n’avait rien à voir avec les commandites
Dear Paul,
So maybe now the stress will hit me. Lori from AGC called me today and changed the date for the pickup of painting to the 21 of February. That is really, really soon. I feel really scattered and out of sorts. Though I did manage to get to my appointment at the bank on time. And I even managed to get an account, which surprised me. C’etait facile, actuellment. Couldn’t get the billets pour Neko Case, however; the box office at Club Soda was closed. I was early for the reservation Clauudine had made at a cute little Italian resto on Ste-Catherine called Mozza. I can’t tell what it is exactly, the language barrier, or that they just don’t like me, or a generation gap, or what, but the meal felt a bit awkward, though not terribly so. There were fun conversations, though I didn’t talk much. Anyway, I’m stressing, I haven’t heard from anyone about getting their paintings to me, I’ll be working like a mad painter this weekend. Claudine is going to Québec City for Carnival. We’ve hardly spent any time together this week. Last night I stayed at her apartment but we were both exhausted after the Chinese New Year dumpling fest at Celia’s house. Claudine did the translation of her text on Ana R., who was also there, and we talked about her upcoming ice sculptures. Andrew F. was there too but he didn’t remember me. He wrote the “cinema” play that Michael collaborated on and I missed, back in the fall. Tomorrow night I think I need some lovin’.
-chris
From: chrislloyd@videotron.ca
Date: Sat Feb 12, 2005 6:41:58 PM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca
Cc: chrislloyd@videotron.ca
Subject: Safe place for users cleaned up Vancouver slum, free drugs may make it safer, Bernard Landry: “le congrès de juin mettra fin aux discussions”
Dear Paul,
Neko Case was a bit of a disappointment, though I won’t complain about the ticket price: The Sadies made it totally worthwhile. They were great, veering between comical and deadly serious, mixing highstrung bluegrass and quasi-ironic gospel with downlow country rock. Nice. Clo and I enjoyed watching other people, watching other people. We had a great supper beforehand at our now-favourite Indian restaurant, la Palace de l’Inde on St. Laurent. Yum. The only problem is the food doesn’t stay hot long enough; one wants to eat slowly, and savour the flavour. They have awseome nan bread.
We were both tired and so headed back to my place as soon as the concert ended, before the obligatory encore. We were both asleep really quickly; the week has been full of go-go-go energy. It was nice to sleep in this morning, and have leisurely vanilla-sex. We made crépes, with frozen berries in the mix, some bananas and a Chinese pear. The heated maple syrup was a nice touch.
I spent the afternoon cutting up panels and preparing them for the final push before the exhibition in Calgary. I’ve selected seven to finish before the show opens, not counting any good images that might pop up between now and then. Will try to complete at least three before the shippers arrive a week from Monday. Am still considering asking Caroline to make one or two. I have no idea how Ed is faring with his painting; I haven’t heard from him recently, and he doesn’t answer well direct questions about his progress. Still haven’t heard from Warren, and whether he’ll be sending his paintings to me or direct to Calgary. And I haven’t heard from my parents in awhile; no email, and they aren’t answering their phone. I guess they have a life away from their house.
It will be another night of Indian food, as I accompany Sarah R. to Anna’s birthday bash at Punjab Palace. I don’t plan to stay out late; I want to get back to the paintings. But we’ll see where the bottle of red wine leaves us. Hooray! La gréve c’etait fini! Je voudrais améliorer mon connaisance du vin rouge.
Your testimony was totally unbelievable the other day, BTW.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Sun Feb 13, 2005 9:37:00 PM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Parti Quebecois caucus members stand with Landry in public show of support, Conseil national du PQ: plusieurs députés blâment les contestataires
Dear Paul,
Je travailais sur les peintures tout le fin de semaine. J’ai sept en train à completion. J’etais heureux avec eux. Soupér hier soir c’etait bien. Le Il y a environ vingt personnes à la table. J’ai rencontre des artistes; une qui fait travail maintenant avec l’industrie du film, un autre qui a travail pour un centre d’artistes au Jersey, juste a coté de Philedelphia. Le autre ne travail pas encore dans le mileu d’arts; elle a travail avec des services social. Les aliments c’etait delicieuse, mais Stephanie m’a dit que elle a vu des petits merdes du souris dans la toilette. Deguelasse!
Ce soir je pense que je vais voir un film chez Claudine. Peut être on vas voir Eternal sunshine of the spotless mind (encore), ou La mémoire dans la peau. Quel est que tu preférés?
I’m feeling again at a crossroads with Claudine. We get along really well, but there is something missing. I keep wondering if we should take a break from one another. Those thoughts are usually quickly followed by a realization that I actually want to spend MORE time with her, not less. Today Karina called me to confirm logistics for the paintings she is shipping to me and we talked for about 2 hours. My cell phone died as a result. It was really nice to speak with her. Did I make a huge bumbling error in breaking up with her? Sometimes I wonder, but I never say it. What do you think?
I need to take a break from the paintings. I’ve developed a super-stiff neck.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Mon Feb 14, 2005 7:41:53 PM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, Martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Prime minister on the defensive after signing of Nfld. and N.S. energy deals, Le Bloc dénonce le ministère de la Santé, le nouvel “associé” de Wal-Mart
Cher Paul,
J’aime mon nouveau travail vraiment. Ça n’est pas trop facile, ni pas difficile. Les journées passaient trés vite, et j’amerais mes colègues, aussi. Greg et moi parlerons beaucoup.
Watched Bourne Identity last night and tonight, the sequel: Bourne Supremacy. I saw it in the theatres this summer with Ed, but want to see it again. It will be nice with Clo. I might buy flowers, or dessert. I really need to have a shower first. My apartment is a mess. Kuan barfed on the floor. I’m skipping french classes for most of this week, purportedly to work on my paintings. I feel I made such good progress this past weekend I deserve a break. I’ve been singing Donne moi ta bouche, by Pierre Lalonde, all day. When I say all day I mean it: it turned through my head constantly, from start ’till finish. It’s a good companion to the painting, as it kept the rhythm going. Either that or a sign of insanity.
Last night I dreamed that I was Madonna, in concert. It was a horrible concert; I was wearing those crazy spiky bras and had no backup singers, no dancers, no musicians, no set. Like karaoke but in a stadium. I think I was heli-ported the hell out of there before the riot got really intense.
J’ai reçu un lettre rejection de Galerie Clark aujourd ‘hui. I forgot to call student loans, oops. Am I a fool for love? Happy Valentine’s Day, BTW. Do anything special for Sheila? I think Claudine feels the same way I do about overly-hyped holidays such as Valentine’s: Bah Humbug. We’ll watch a movie and drink tea and maybe have a snack and then have some fun sex. Who needs the hassle of reservations, flowers, chocolates, all the baggage? I prefer to celebrate the idea of love all year ’round. In the words of Michael Jackson: I’m a lover, not a fighter.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Wed Feb 16, 2005 12:27:27 AM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Federal info vulnerable to hackers, billions spent without scrutiny: auditor, Malgré la hausse des cyberattaques, des ministères restent insouciants
Dear Paul,
I’ve been staying awake longer lately, and it’s not just the coffee. I haven’t even had much coffee the past couple days. Sometimes I wonder if it is a fear of death, of running out of time, of not finishing things. That must be the pre-show stress settling in.
I finally recovered my video idea. I was talking on the phone to Melissa when something she said prompted the memory. I’m going to stand in front of your constituency office and videotape it. The basic premise is a stakeout. But I can’t find your office listed anywhere on the web.
Getting lost in the time of painting in one room. The past couple days have flown by. But not much progress on my own paintings. I finished one tonight, but am having trouble with the drawing on another.
Burning my mouth on hot green curry. Cold beer dulls the pain somewhat. No, actually, it doesn’t. I think I’m venturing into 2nd degree burn territory. I think my oven is on the fritz again, losing heat. It can’t be just fuses. Wanna buy a stove? I’m not sure if I’m going to stay in this apartment after July 1. Hard to think of July, and of moving, in the middle of winter. But lately it hasn’t felt much like winter; it’s been warm and mild and rainy, like spring.
Spent last night at Claudine’s and we had more energetic sex after watching the Bourne Supremacy. We both preferred the first one.
I’m going to bed, I don’t feel much like writing tonight.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Wed Feb 16, 2005 10:43:23 PM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, Martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Martin, Harper face off over gay marriage bill as parliamentary debate begins, Martin et Harper s’affrontent aux Communes sur le mariage gai
Dear Paul,
Was on the phone for a long while today with Student Loans (shudder). I have to re-apply for interest relief; I sent the application to the wrong address back in December. It’s all so confusing. For the past week I had been trying to get in touch with someone at the RBC National Student Centre but either couldn’t get a human or they couldn’t find a trace of me. My loan is with the bank directly, not their student centre. I don’t even think I qualify anymore for interest relief; I’m just stalling, trying to buy more time. In five more years I can declare bankruptcy. I think I could spend five years someplace warm.
The snow is back. Heavy and sticky, perfect for snowballs. Val and Hannah should be having fun; they are performing their Snowshovelling piece at Dare-Dare all this week.
I called your office today to get the address. Looks like I won’t be taking a day off work this week, so I’ll most likely be shooting the video next week or the week after.
Had a good day at work, Greg and I have almost completely finished the room. I’ve made a couple goof-ups, mostly minor things, but they make me think that I should wait until next week to ask for my raise, or pay review. I’m afraid I might already be making more than he thinks I am worth. Then again, he does seem quite pleased with my work.
Worked on paintings again tonight but had trouble with the experimental crackle finish I was attempting. Claudine isn’t feeling well so I’m going to spend the night at her place. She seems to think some cuddling or sex could help.
I’ve almost taken all the knots from Kuan’s fur, but there is one large stubborn one remaining.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Thu Feb 17, 2005 10:51:51 PM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Social groups call on Liberals to boost social spending in budget, Hydro-Québec augmente la surveillance et le nombre de gardiens
Dear Paul,
Got off work early this afternoon, and after picking up my phone from Claudine’s apartment (one of the hazards of cell phones: leaving them places), I was home and working on my paintings. Finished another 2; now I feel like I am making some progress. Except I don’t really feel like writing at the moment; I think I am coming down with a cold. I noticed a sore throat when I woke up this morning, and other cold symptoms have been appearing—light-headedness, sore joints, general tiredness. Cramped over a desk all night can’t help much. Smoking at work isn’t helping, either. I’m supposed to write a statement for the show right now but can’t muster the strength. Can’t even finish this letter properly. I’m going to go to bed and read.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Sun Feb 20, 2005 11:27:29 AM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, Martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Game (finally) over: NHL talks end badly despite presence of 99 and 66, Les joueurs constatent que l’écart est encore plus grand qu’ils le croyaient
Dear Paul,
These damn paintings are taking way longer than I thought they would. And now I’ve come down with a wicked cold. I’ve got to take a break and buy some medicine.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd6627@yahoo.ca>
Date: Mon Feb 21, 2005 9:30:40 AM America/Montreal
To: paul martin <martin.p@parl.gc.ca>, paul martin <pm@pm.gc.ca>
Cc: chrislloyd@videotron.ca
Subject: Cost of cleaning up sponsorship mess may jump to $80 million, Jean Charest sera accueilli par des manifestants demain à Montréal
Cher Paul,
J’ai passé la nuit chez Claudine. Nous avons mange ensemble, buvant un bon vin et regardant les Jutras. Mémoires Affectives a reçu quatre trophées. Aprés ça, nous avons vu le documentaire «some kind of monster», sur Metallica. C’etait bon. Qui penserait que des gars de «heavy metal» veut embrass ensemble et parlant tous leurs problemes avec un thérapeute? Le thérapeute eventualment a pensé qu’il est un vrai membre de group «rock».
Dimanche j’ai fini les peintures (je completai sept en une semaine!) et construiré un boite. C’etait un bon hasard fois duex; Karina a fait le collis pour les quatre peintures de Saint John avec les grands morseaux de polystyrène, ces j’ai utilisé dans la boite j’ai construire. J’ai fais la boite avec les panneux que j’ai trouvé sur la rue la semaine passé. J’ai coupé les panneux par mes mains; je n’ai pas un scie electrique.
J’ai rèservé mon billet pour un vol a Calgary (grace de le carte de credit de ma mere); Je vais partir la jour St. Patrick et retourne la 29 mars. Claudine sera me visiter la pour quatre jours. J’espoire a voir mes relations Mark et Margo pendant ma visite, aussi peut étré Ed a «deadmonton», Karen a Kelowna et mon frére Aaron a Whistler. Mais, premier fois je dois faire completer des oevres pour l’expo: les livres (5!), les lettres (moin de 1500 fouilles!) , la vidéo et des choses pour le «curio cabinet». Lots of time!
Gotta go; have another appointment with the clinic. Should be the last (fingers crossed). Will spend the rest of the day cleaning my apartment while waiting for the shippers to arrive.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Tue Feb 22, 2005 6:27:45 AM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, Martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Foreign Affairs Canada’s (FAC) Arts Promotion Program proposed budget cut
Dear Prime Minister Martin,
Foreign Affairs Canada’s (FAC) Arts Promotion Program is facing a $2-million-dollar cut this coming March. This program provides travel grants to Canadian artists and companies, and enables Canadian missions (embassies, high commissions, consulates) abroad to deliver their cultural programs. The prospective cut will take 35% out of the available funding—a big loss when the calibre of and international demand for Canadian talent is growing.
Budgets should, in fact, be going the other way. Funding should be not only maintained, but increased. The program receives more than 700 requests a year for international travel grants in various disciplines including literature. Currently, approximately 45% of applicants do not receive funding due to limited funds. With a 35% cut, the number of applicants who don’t receive grants would increase to 60%.
The result: Canada will lose its place on the world stage, and Canadian artists will have a much harder time getting to international events.
Two million is a relatively small amount in a budget of billions, but will have a devastating effect on the international activities of Canadian artists. I implore you, do not deal this blow to the Canadian artists who are struggling to make their—and their country’s—artistic contribution to global culture.
Sincerely,
Chris Lloyd
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Tue Feb 22, 2005 6:41:44 AM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Anti-terror powers rarely used but still needed, says justice minister, Devant la Chambre de commerce, Charest rappelle le déséquilibre fiscal
Dear Paul,
So I busted my ass Sunday and yesterday morning finishing the crate and guess what? The shippers didn’t arrive. I tried to get a hold of Lori at the gallery to find out what was going on but she wasn’t working. I’ve got to work the rest of the week so don’t quite know what to do. Should I drag the crate down the stairs and leave it on the balcony? It is kind of heavy.
My appointment at the clinic went well; another azute treatment, another morning spent in mild discomfort. That stuff burns! But it should be my last visit; everything seems to have cleared up. And I spent the rest of the day cleaning up the apartment, organizing files and papers, vacuuming, etc. Went to my french class and enjoyed it very much; I had missed it. Afterwards I stopped at SS&Ms and washed a load of laundry. Ate beef stroganoff and drank red wine while watching the end of Fahrenheit 911 with Sarah R. I still can’t believe 59 million Americans voted that numbskull back into office. If I hear that men say the word “freedom” one more time I think I might vomit on the spot.
Did you hear that Hunter S. Thompson is dead? He apparently killed himself. Long live Dr. Gonzo!
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Tue Feb 22, 2005 11:41:03 PM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Martin will say No to U.S. missile shield in surprise announcement, Frank McKenna affirme que le Canada participe déjà au bouclier antimissile
Cher Paul,
Les routines quotidienne recomencer. J’ai reveillé plutôt. Il y a beaucoup des gens sur la metro. Je pensé a cause du neige; des rues c’etaient glissant. Je travaillai durant la journée a la même maison. Je peinturai un table et j’ai fait le reparations sur un petit murale dans la salle du bain. Puis, a la fin du journée, j’ai condui la camion de Greg. On a retrouvé ça de la garage. Pendant la journée je penserai a beacoup de sujets: sex, menage a trois ou quatre avec ma chérie, (just as an aside: I actually set up a cheesy online sex and swingers account for myself. So far, no hits, no winks, no email, no visitors, no nuthin’! But I find it odd how my typical mid-relationship lusting for other people has mutated this time ‘round to a passive curiosity about having threesomes with my girl. Couples, girls and boys, whatever. Curiosity that I want to share with ma cherie. Does this mean I really like her? D’uh) …puis, encore l’art, cette projet, comment a tu etait comme mon méditer, Mulroney (parce que je peux voir leur maison), mémoires et le difficulté je trouve qui souviens quelque choses, et le peinture. Aujourd ‘hui je pense que j’ai utilisé le meillieur dans le monde: Farrow & Bell. Il viendra a Grand Britanique. C’etait vraiment bon, comme crême dur, beurre ou glaise.
Puis, que’ce que a passé avec ton fort No! a le bouclier antimissile? N’importé quoi; Bravo! Mais, que’ce que Frank a dit?
Situation with the shippers has been resolved, somewhat. They called me today, and will set up a pickup time sometime this week. I might just have to leave the crate on the sidewalk for them, as I’ll be working all week. Big push to get as much done at the Barat Street house; the owner comes back from two months vacation at the end of the week.
Bonne chance demain avec le buget. Je lire En attendant Gotot en française et en anglais a le même temps, et pendent je pense a toi.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Thu Feb 24, 2005 11:06:57 PM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Martin says No to missile defence, U.S. says it will still fire over Canada, La Régie n’accorde qu’une hausse partielle des tarifs à Hydro-Québec
Dear Paul,
The past 24 hours have been exhausting. Yesterday I worked late, came home, had a shower, went to class late, then met Claudine afterwards. We ate a quick bite at Patati Patata and spent the night together at her place. Had another full day at work today. There is a big push to get the house as finished as possible before the owner comes back from vacation this weekend. Not an easy task, what with cabinet-makers, fabric installers, cleaners (yes! professional box-cleaners!), a carpenter, an electrician, and carpet-installers traipsing around. Actually, I spent a few hours back at the “art” house, waiting for radiator boxes to be installed. Then I painted them.
Was almost last for class tonight because of the student demonstrations. The busses were backed up. Good for them, there should be more protesting. The Charest government is waffling all over the place. I wonder if he would be more popular if he was still waffling but had billions of dollars to throw around? BTW, nice photo of you in the Globe today. I’ll try to include a painting of it in the show.
Warren emailed me back; he’s bringing his paintings to Montréal with him next week. That’s a relief.
Met my class at Radio Centre Ville to record a little skit we had prepared about neighbours. Afterwards we had an exam. I rushed through it so I could call back Dean, the shipper, and arrange a pickup time. He’s going to come early tomorrow morning. He brings his car in the trailer with him when he does long hauls. It’s good this worked out. I stuffed the letters from Janaury 1 2001 through to the AGNS exhibition in 2003 in the crate. I think I’ll try to arrange to print the rest at a printer in Calgary. Why travel with a big box of printed paper?
Andréa called me the other day. Actually, a bunch of friends from other cities called all at once. Mohanad, to ask for renovation photos. Karina, to ask for a writing assignment for a job as Information Architect she is applying for. Liz, to ask for mail. Andréa, to say she will be in Montréal for the weekend. With La Nuit Blanche on Saturday it is shaping up to be a busy social weekend.
It is Trevor’s birthday today. I just called him and we spoke for a bit. I haven’t sent him anything, not even a card. Bad brother. I wonder if he’d like a PM painting?
I’ve got to get some email done and finish the text panel for Lori before it gets too late already.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Fri Feb 25, 2005 8:50:43 PM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Canadian rejection of missile defence historic, unpredictable shift: analysts, La Commission ordonne à Wal-Mart de cesser l’intimidation à Sainte-Foy
Dear Paul,
I’m so angry at my bank right now, Banque National. I deposited my paycheck from last week on Sunday. Tonight on my way home from a somewhat grueling ten-hour workday I stopped at the bank to withdraw some cash to buy groceries, since today would logically mark the fifth of the five day hold. Not so fast, Lloydly. The money is still not available. What the fuck gives banks the right to hold cheques longer than five days? What is the excuse here? This sort of shit makes me furious. It’s no wonder I want to rob banks. At the moment I’d be happy just blowing them up. Luckily I still have a little cash so I can eat, but what about the rest of the weekend? Will the cheque magically clear itself on the weekend? Do they set some little timer to go off? Those fuckers. I was going to relax and mellow out tonight, have a shower and make some art, but instead I’m going to write the angriest letter to my bank. Should be good practice for my written french.
-chris
From: chris lloyd <chrislloyd@videotron.ca>
Date: Mon Feb 28, 2005 8:05:44 AM America/Montreal
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, martin.P@parl.gc.ca
Subject: Canada sends officials to U.S. for one-day lobbying effort on trade, Le Canada suscite peu d’attention aux Etats-Unis, dit l’ambassadeur sortant
Dear Paul,
Le fin de semaine c’etait trop court. C’est lundi deja, puis retourner au travail. I worked on paintings all weekend and went out Saturday for La Nuit Blanche. First I had supper at Eric’s place, and met his girlfriend Rudy and their Russian artist-friend, then we picked up Claudine from work at la bouquinerie and wandered downtown, through Place des Arts, down to Square Viger where we collected Sarah R. and met Hannah and Val and their snow-shoveling sculpture park. Then it was back to the Spectrum and the Fred Fortin show at midnight. We left Claudine there and Eric drove us down to the old port and Roberts and I rented skates (Eric and Rudy had their own), met up with Anthony, and we all skated for an hour or so. Left Roberts and Anthony there and Eric and Rudy and I drove up Saint Laurent hunting down smoked meat sandwiches. We just missed closing time at Shwartz’s but le Main was still open across the street and their smoked meat is quite good. On our way out we ran into Claudine with her friend Fanny and we walked home together. It was a late but a fun Nuit Blanche, and it wasn’t too cold out either.
Sunday I worked on a painting all day and then met Claudine at her place for supper. Her friend Mathieu had given her tickets to Lhasa performing at the Corona theatre on Notre Dame. Both were amazing; the theatre for its architecture and simple rejuvenated style, and Lhasa and her band for their amazing synchronicity and magical sounds. We got home just as the Oscars finished so I saved myself the frustration of watching and yelling at Hollywood.
Back to work today; the owner of the house is back and we might not be painting so much as moving boxes again.
In heard back from National Bank; they maintained that the five day hold means deposits made on the weekend are release the following Monday. Does not Monday-Friday count as five days? I’m going to write them back. This sounds somewhat Orwellian to me; it’s like I’m holding up five fingers and the bank can only see four. And that ends up translating into seven or eight! Maybe it’s because I have a stubby, and my right hand only had four and a half.
-chris
DEAR PM 