Lapping and honing operations are classified under the basic art of grinding.
In later works—such as Kaleidoscope (1956), Allegory (1959), Totem (1960), and Imago (1963)—Nikolais continued experiments in what he called the basic art of the theatre an integration of motion, sound, shape, and colour, each given relatively equal emphasis.
Although the technology has changed, the basic art of flag making is similar to what Edward and Benjamin Annin practiced in a Manhattan loft when they started making signal flags for sailing ships in the 1820's.
It is great to see it here, for it is rarely on display in the museum, but its presence further complicates the basic art historical story the exhibition is trying to tell; not only is it out of historical sequence, but it is also not the work for which the artists are best known.
It is hardly surprising that many of their sentences end with the wan, hopeful words, "You know?" The anguish and inadequacy with which these people approach the basic art of conversation give "Shining City" an almost unbearable air not only of poignancy but also of familiarity.
