John Bradley
Following total immersion in 21st century art and literature John Bradley turned away from the “art world” with an acknowledgement of a Ballardian truism, "The so called real world has evolved far beyond anything contained in fictive possiblity". For 20 years he has lived out Ghandi's dictum - become the change you want to see. Making a living amongst the most excluded citizens of Europe's most wealthy megalopolis he has tended mental and spiritual development with stoic tenderness. Occasional works of journalism have appeared from this twilight world, oral histories of the marginal, scents remaindered from the lives of the barely visible, reportage from a world that existing on the same streets but moving in different patterns, refusing to collude with our vain pretence of security. Characterized by generosity, humour and an embracing of frailty these stories have passed between a lucky random coterie like pearls.
Despite turning his back on the global art village he has been constantly sought by artists for critical feedback, his credibility being unparalleled. He has been considered, and occasionally generous, in his support. Lately rumours have been circulating that he has been working quietly all along on a dynastic work, but details remain miasmic. As his compatriot Helms was heard to say of him "We know in practical term what he does and we have heard him speak, but in our own era we will have no real understanding of his influence. He has become of the rarified air we sometimes sense, and which shocks our thoughts to previously uncharted realms. Is that the kind of thing you need to finish it John?”