Christopher Knowles Papers
Call Number
Dates
Creator
Extent
Language of Materials
Abstract
The Christopher Knowles Papers contain material relating to the personal and professional life of visual and performing artist Christopher Knowles. Born in Brooklyn, NY in 1959, Knowles connected with avant-garde artist Robert Wilson at age 14, after Wilson heard a tape of Knowles speaking the words of his poem "Emily Likes the TV." They collaborated on many performances pieces, most notably "Einstein on the Beach." Knowles has performed internationally and has had his artwork exhibited in both joint and solo shows at galleries including, but not limited to, the Holly Solomon Gallery, Gavin Brown's Enterprise and the Museum of Modern Art. He continues to live and work in New York City.
Biographical / Historical
Born in Brooklyn in 1959, Christopher Knowles is an artist who works within a variety of mediums including performance, poetry, paintings and what are called "typings," visual pieces created using a typewriter, most commonly with the letter "c" for "Christopher". In 1973, at the age of 14, Knowles was approached by avant-garde theater director and artist Robert Wilson, who had heard a tape of Knowles reciting his piece, "Emily Loves the TV" and hoped to collaborate with Knowles. Knowles went, with his parents, to a performance of Wilson's "The Life and Times of Joseph Stalin," where Wilson brought Knowles on stage to perform what would become Knowles' piece, "Emily Likes the TV." This was the beginning of a long friendship which would lead them to collaborate many times over the years, most famously in 1976 on "Einstein on the Beach," which was also in collaboration with composer Philip Glass and choreographer Lucinda Childs. Knowles lived in Wilson's SoHo loft and art studio for a time, working with the Byrd Hoffman School of Byrd's, Wilson's art and performance collective. Other collaborative work included performances with Cindy Lubar and Richard Kostelanetz.
Knowles has had a number of joint and solo shows of his visual art at the Kitchen, the Holly Solomon Gallery, the Byrd Hoffman Studio, Gavin Brown's Enterprise, the Museum of Modern Art, ICA Philadelphia and the Louvre. The Museum of Modern Art acquired some of Knowles' Typings in 2013. Knowles continues to live and work in New York City and travels widely to perform.
Arrangement
This collection is arranged into 14 series:
SERIES I: Journals
SERIES II: Performance
Subseries A: Performance with Christopher Knowles
Subseries B: Performance without Christopher Knowles
SERIES III: Exhibitions
SERIES IV: Art
SERIES V: Correspondence
SERIES VI: Press
SERIES VII: Personal
SERIES VIII: Photographs
Subseries A: Photographs
Subseries B: Slides
SERIES IX: Sound recordings
SERIES X: Video recordings
SERIES XI: Data storage
SERIES XII: Sound and Video Preservaion
SERIES XIII: 2016 Accession SERIES XIV: Books
The material is arranged chronologically with the exceptions of Series II, Series IX, Series X, and Series XIV which are all arranged alphabetically. Series XIII has not been arranged by an archivist, and remains in the order in which it was received. Original order, as dictated by Knowles and a consulting archivist, was preserved wherever possible. Oversize material is arranged at the end, under the corresponding series number. There is also oversize material in map case 2D. Video and sound recordings, as well as the data storage, were left in the original order as received from the donor and given ID numbers.
Scope and Content
The collection contains material pertaining to Knowles professional work as an artist. However, much of that work was done as a young adolescent, which is reflected throughout the collection. His journals are a repository for his artwork as well as his personal life and contain reflections of his exhibited or performed art. There is material relating to the many performances in which he took part, including programs, press, reviews, source material, scripts, photographs and publicity. Some of the performances include "Einstein on the Beach," "The $ Value of Man," "A Letter for Queen Victoria," "Dialog/Curious George," and "Parzival." Many of these were collaborations with Robert Wilson. In addition to the paper material related to his performances, there are video and sound recordings of shows, as well as recordings that Knowles used as a part of his performances.
Knowles produced a large portfolio of paintings and drawings in addition to his performance art. The collection includes material documenting his exhibitions, both domestic and international, including press, gallery cards, exhibit catalogs and correspondence. There are photographs of his exhibited work, as well as slides, in addition to marker, pen and crayon drawings. Notably, Knowles created what are called "Typings," made with a typewriter and most commonly using the letter "c" to create designs and images. This collection contains quite a few typings, as well as typewritten poetry and some prose.
Correspondence includes letters, cards and postcards both sent and received by Knowles. Notable correspondence includes Jasper Johns, John Cage, Robert Wilson and Cindy Lubar. Knowles also designed and created a large number of birthday and father's day cards, as well as invitations to his shows and his own birthday parties.
Photographs include many taken of Knowles and his family, as well of images of his art. There are photographs of performances and rehearsals, international exhibits and shows, in addition to family vacations and his home in Brooklyn. There is a small amount of material relating to Knowles' personal life, including medical and educational information and resumes.
Subjects
People
Topics
Places
Conditions Governing Access
Materials are open to researchers. Please contact the Fales Library and Special Collections, fales.library@nyu.edu, 212-998-2596.
Conditions Governing Use
Copyright (or related rights to publicity and privacy) for materials in this collection was not transferred to New York University. Permission to use materials must be secured from the copyright holder. Please contact the Fales Library and Special Collections, fales.library@nyu.edu, 212-998-2596.
Preferred Citation
Published citations should take the following form:
Identification of item, date (if known); Christopher Knowles Papers; MSS 414; box number; folder number; Fales Library and Special Collections, New York University Libraries.
Location of Materials
Immediate Source of Acquisition
The Christopher Knowles Papers were donated by Christopher Knowles in October of 2014. The accession number associated with this donation is 2014.414. The 2016 Accretion to the Christopher Knowles Papers was received in February of 2016. The accession number associated with this gift is 2016.012.
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Some audiovisual and born-digital materials have not been preserved and may not be available to researchers.
Separated Materials
Books included in this collection have been removed and will be cataloged in BobCat. They will be available via a BobCat search for "Christopher Knowles."
About this Guide
Processing Information
In 2016 an additional donation was received and added to the collection as a separate series in accordance with previous arrangement and descriptions. As there were no original folder titles available for the 2016 accession, these were supplied by an archivist. In 2019, books were processed as an additional series to the collection.
Revisions to this Guide
Repository
Series I: Journals
Scope and Content
This series contains journals and sketchbooks filled by Christopher Knowles. Many contain work referencing larger complete artworks, such as "Curious George," which was a collaboration with Robert Wilson. Done mostly in marker or pen, the journals also include many of Knowles "Top Ten" song lists, which he created listening to WABC DJs. Occasionally, the journals contain typewritten text that was then tapped into the blank book. There are also two books created by Knowles as a young child, with the aid of a parent, using text, drawing and photographs. Additionally, a few of the journals include additions by collaborator Cindy Lubar and Robert Wilson.
Arrangement
This series is arranged chronologically, with undated material at the back.
School Workbook, 1971-1972
Language of Materials
The 6 People in the Knowles Family, February 1973, inclusive
Language of Materials
The New York by Chris Knowles, February 1973, inclusive
The Book of People..., March 1973, inclusive
The Book About Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter, March 1973, inclusive
The 11 Chapters, April 1973, inclusive
A B C D E F G H I..., May 1981, inclusive
Chris' Math Book, undated
[Cindy Lubar and Christopher Knowles], undated
English, undated
Mr. Bojangles, undated
9 Chapters by Chris Knowles [part] 1, undated
9 Chapters by Chris Knowles [part] 2, undated
Since Three Years..., undated
Series II: Performance
Scope and Content
This series contains material relating to Christopher Knowles' performance art. This includes programs, photographs, source material and posters, as well as some correspondence and press. Many of these performances were written by or originally conceived by others, most prominently Robert Wilson, but Knowles often contributed text or set design, if he was not performing in the piece itself.
Arrangement
This series is arranged alphabetically, with multiple occurances of the same performance arranged chronologically. Subseries A contains material for performances to which Knowles contributed directly. Subseries B contains material relating to performances in which Knowles was not immediately involved.
Subseries A: Performances with Christopher Knowles
2 Lips and Dancers and Space, November 2004 - June 2005, inclusive
Language of Materials
70 Angels on the Facade, 1998, inclusive
$ Value of Man assorted material, 1974-1976, inclusive
$ Value of Man program, 1975, inclusive
$ Value of Man supporting material, c. 1975
$ Value of Man loose material for program, 1975, undated
$ Value of Man libretto, undated
Alice Through the Looking Glass, 1993, inclusive
Aquilarco, 1998, inclusive
Byrd Hoffman Performance Calendar, March 1975, inclusive
Christopher Knowles Invitations to Performances, undated
Contact Quarterly Benefit Performances, April 1978, inclusive
Contract for Scenarios with Richard Kostelanetz, 1980, inclusive
"Nametapes" Copyright Registration, November 29, 1979, inclusive
The Days Before, June 1999 - July 1999, inclusive
Dialog/Curious George Reviews [1 of 2], 1980, inclusive
Dialog/Curious George Reviews, 1980, inclusive
Dialog/Curious George Stagebill and Flyer, 1980, inclusive
Dialog/Network original typescripts, 1978, inclusive
Buffalo Dreams, undated
Einstein on the Beach Libretto, 1976, inclusive
Einstein on the Beach Lincoln Center Program, 1976
Einstein on the Beach New York Times Review, November 23, 1976, inclusive
Einstein on the Beach Open Rehearsal, 1976, inclusive
Einstein on the Beach Book and BAM program, 1984, undated
Language of Materials
Einstein on the Beach BAM program, 1992, inclusive
Language of Materials
Einstein on the Beach at McCarter Theater, July 1992, inclusive
Language of Materials
Einstein on the Beach at the Barbican and Opera Orchestre National, 2012, inclusive
Einstein on the Beach at BAM and Ann Arbor, 2012, inclusive
Emily Likes the TV script, 1976, inclusive
Emily Likes the TV unbound script, 1976-1977, inclusive
Emily Likes the TV photographs, 1976-1977, inclusive
Emily Likes the TV photographs and contact sheets, 1977, undated
Emily Likes the TV and $ Value of man typescripts from workshop, 1989, undated
Everyday Business photographs and contact sheets [1 of 2], 1976, undated
Everyday Business photographs and contact sheets [2 of 2], 1976, undated
Everyday Business Flyer, 1979, inclusive
Everyday Business in the SoHo Weekly News, April 19, 1979, inclusive
Everyday Buesiness photographs, undated
Get Wreck at The Kitchen, 1978, inclusive
Global and Collection, 1982, inclusive
Grace for Grace production notes, undated
A Letter for Queen Victoria Book, 1974-1975, inclusive
Queen Victoria press and program, 1974-1975, inclusive
Life and Times of Joseph Stalin, 1973, inclusive
Life and Times of Joseph Stalin photographs, undated
A Mad Man, A Mad Dog, 1974, inclusive
My Show invitations, undated
Other Rooms, Other Voices, undated
Parzival in Hamburg supporting material, 1987-1988, inclusive
Parzival book [in German], 1987, inclusive
Parzival script, 1987, inclusive
Parzival program at Thalia Theater, 1987-1988, inclusive
Parzival by Tankred Dorst, 1990, inclusive
Parzival photograph, undated
Parzival Photographs, undated
Rescue, 1997, inclusive
Rescue gala performance, undated
Shakespeare's Sonnets [source material], undated
A Solo Performance, 1975-1976, inclusive
A Solo Performance photographs, 1976, inclusive
Spaceman program, 1976, inclusive
The Sundance Kid is Beautiful, 2012, inclusive
Sunshine Superman, 1989, inclusive
Taormina Festival: Robert Wilson symposium, 1997, inclusive
A Tribute to Edwin Denby, 1997, inclusive
T.S.E. come in under the shadow of this red rock, 1994, inclusive
T.S.E. correspondence, 1994, inclusive
T.S.E. correspondence with Change Performing Arts, 1996, inclusive
Two Nietsches in Love, 1989, inclusive
Videotape inventory list from The Kitchen, 1999-2000, inclusive
Watt, 1995, inclusive
Watch Movies/Watt, 1995, inclusive
Windows II script, undated
Wisdom of the King, undated
Wanderlust Swirling Through My Brain script, undated
Workshop Transcripts, undated
Subseries B: Performance without Christopher Knowles
119 Comments by Cindy
Airport Piece, 1975, inclusive
Angie's Waltz, c. 1977
Blah Blah Blah, 2001, inclusive
Byrd Hoffman School of Byrds Performances, 1972, undated
Civil Wars Journal - American June '82 by S.K. Dunn, June 1982, inclusive
Civil Wars correspondence, 1983-1984, inclusive
A Dialogue by Merce Cunningham and John Cage, 1980, inclusive
Program from Follies, undated
Performance Programs, 1980, 1982
Robert Wilson programs [1 of 2], 1970-2000, inclusive
Robert Wilson Programs [2 of 2], 1970-2000, inclusive
Tribute to Anthology Film Archives, 1977, inclusive
Union Specific by Cindy Lubar, 1980, inclusive
Unattributed Scripts, undated
Watermill/Persephone, 1995, 1998, undated
Language of Materials
Series III: Exhibitions
Scope and Content
This series contains material relating to Christopher Knowles' exhibitions of his artwork. This includes joint and solo exhibitions. The artwork exhibited includes paintings and "typings." The material includes publicity, catalogs, invitations, and photographs as well as some press and correspondence.
Arrangement
This series is arranged chronologically with undated material at the end.
Dessins et Sculptures, 1974, inclusive
Schedule for The Kitchen, 1976, inclusive
Grant Applications submitted by Christopher Knowles, 1976-1982, inclusive
Drawing Center Exhibit, 1977, inclusive
Franklin Furnace exhibit, 1977, inclusive
Patterning and Decoration at Museum of the American Foundation for the Arts, 1977, inclusive
Summer/77 at the Drawing Center, 1977, inclusive
About Earths and Universes at Holly Solomon Gallery, 1978, inclusive
Holly Solomon Gallery and Drawing Center photographs, 1978, inclusive
The Sorcerer's Apprentice Machine Assisted Art, May 12, 1978-June 14, 1978, inclusive
Typing Work, 1978, inclusive
Red and Green: Paintings, Drawings and Audiotapes, 1979, inclusive
Red and Green Show photographs, 1979, inclusive
Language of Materials
The Stage Show at MoMA, March 5, 1979 - May 29, 1979, inclusive
Words and Images at the Philadelphia College of Art, 1979, inclusive
Artists and Models Ball: A benefit for Artists Space, 1980, inclusive
Hallwall: Emblems and Paint, 1980, inclusive
Holly Solomon Gallery: Three More, 1980, inclusive
List of Exhibitions, 1980, inclusive
Visual Diaries: A Personal Use of Words and Images, 1980, inclusive
Art on Paper at the Weatherspoon Art Gallery, 1981, inclusive
The Destroyed Print, November 15, 1982 - December 11, 1982, inclusive
Drawing Center Exhibit, 1982, inclusive
Application for Institute for Art & Urban Resources, 1984, inclusive
Herman Costa "Booth" Installation, 1984, inclusive
Museum Boymans van Beuningen, 1985, inclusive
Shipment records from Museum Boymans exhibit, 1985, inclusive
Tekeningen en Typings [Museum Boymans publicity cards], 1985, inclusive
Holly Solomon Gallery Correspondence, 1985-1989, inclusive
Galerie Dorrie & Priess "Typings", 1988, inclusive
Robert Wilson's Vision, 1991, inclusive
La Tradicion: Performing Painting, 1997, inclusive
Christopher Knowles Artwork Sales, 1998, inclusive
The End: An Independent Vision of Contemporary Culture, 2000, inclusive
To Whom it May Concern, 2002, inclusive
Gavin Brown Delivery, April 23, 2004, inclusive
Christopher Knowles at Gavin Brown's Enterprise, June 2004, inclusive
4th Berlin Biennial for Contemporary Art, 2006, inclusive
"Confines. Pasajes de Las Artes Contemporaneas" at the IVAM, 2009
Material for unrealized Einstein on the Beach Exhibit, 2013, inclusive
Wynn Newhouse Awards Exhibition, 2013-2014, inclusive
East Village gallery cards, undated
Everyday Business: A Benefit Exhibition, undated
Poetic Visions, undated
Series IV: Art
Scope and Content
This series contains original art by Christopher Knowles. This includes drawings and typings as well as poetry and prose. Some of the material relates to completed works of art like his collaboration with Robert Wilson, "Dialog/Curious George," as well as a few pieces that were exhibited in galleries. However, the majority of the material exists independently and should not necessarily be considered complete artworks.
Arrangement
This series is arranged chronologically with undated material at the back.
Assorted Drawings & Typings, 1971, 1991-1994, undated, inclusive
Father's Day Art, 1973, undated, inclusive
Typewritten play inspired by Letter for Queen Victoria, 1974, inclusive
Andy Degroat and Dancers program, 1977, inclusive
Copyright agreement for unknown piece, 1977, inclusive
New Yorker poetry submission, 1977, inclusive
Traveler's Digest "Letter to Paris", 1977, inclusive
Equipment manuals, 1978, undated
"Once Upon a Time" by Christopher Knowles, 1980, inclusive
"Artifacts at the End of a Decade", 1981, inclusive
Poetic Visions Playing Cards, 1981, inclusive
Artdates engagement calendar [1 of 2], 1984-1986, inclusive
Artdates engagement calendar [2 of 2], 1984-1986, inclusive
Photos & slides of Knowles paintings, 1984-1994, inclusive
Calendar typings, 1985, inclusive
"History of My Memories", 1988, inclusive
Photography and framing services for Knowles' paintings, 1989-1992, inclusive
Photographs & photocopies of Knowles' paintings, 1989, 1990-1993, undated, inclusive
Photographs of Parzival paintings, 1990, undated, inclusive
Observations of Christopher Makos' opening preview, 1992, inclusive
Christmas party invite, 1995, inclusive
[Sketches/outsider art], 2002, inclusive
Birthday invitations, 2004-2014, undated, inclusive
Lower Manhattan Map Project, 2007, inclusive
MoMA Calendar, 2010, inclusive
Art Collection Short Form Files, undated
Audio Work, undated
Language of Materials
Color & B/W photocopies of Knowles' paintings, undated
Drawing of Simon Game, undated
Drawing of the Earth, undated
Handwritten list of song titles, undated
Happy 15th Birthday Emily, undated
Publicity photographs of WABC DJs [source material], undated
Uncredited napkin art, undated
Chart scroll, undated
Series V: Correspondence
Scope and Content
This series contains correspondence both sent and received by Christopher Knowles. It includes many cards and post cards, as well as professional correspondence concerning the exhibition and sale of his artwork, arranging performances and travel. There is correspondence between him and his parents, Jasper Johns, Jay Moses, Robert Wilson, Cindy Lubar and the Holly Solomon Gallery.
Arrangement
This series is arranged chronologically, with undated material at the back.
Lettres francaises, 1971, inclusive
Correspondence recieved by Knowles [1 of 2], 1972-1997, inclusive
Correspondence received by Knowles [2 of 2], 1972-1997, inclusive
Byrd Hoffman and Edward Knowles correspondence [1 of 2], 1973-1982, inclusive
Letters from Knowles to his parents, 1973-1985, inclusive
George Ashley correspondence to Barbara and Ed Knowles, 1974, inclusive
Correspondence regarding Knowles' typings and artwork, 1976-1982, inclusive
Byrd Hoffman correspondence with Edward Knowles [2 of 2], 1973-1982, inclusive
Holly Solomon Gallery correspondence, 1978-1984, inclusive
Edward Knowles Correspondence, 1978-1979, inclusive
Correspondence regarding Knowles' book "Typing" [1 of 2], c. 1979
Correspondence regarding Knowles' book "Typing" [2 of 2], c. 1979
Correspondence regarding funding and exhibition of Knowles' work, 1980-1984, inclusive
Correspondence regarding "Artifacts at the End of a Decade", 1980-1981, inclusive
Edward Knowles correspondence regarding Christopher Knowles, 1980-1992, inclusive
Jasper Johns correspondence, 1981, inclusive
Correspondence and typings from Knowles, 1981, inclusive
Correspondence received by Knowles [1 of 2], 1982-1997, inclusive
Correspondence recieved by Knowles [2 of 2], 1982-1997, inclusive
Museum Boymans-van Beuningen correspondence, 1983-1984, inclusive
Knowles letter to Jay Moses, 1984, inclusive
Correspondence with Galleries Bebert, 1985, inclusive
Correspondence received by Knowles, 1985-1997, inclusive
Robert Wilson Correspondence, 1986-1997, inclusive
Carolyn Heft correspondence, 1993, inclusive
Hugh Lafave correspondence, 1994, inclusive
Madame M.C. Dane correspondence, 1994-1995, inclusive
Anna Tucker Correspondence, 1994, inclusive
Jan Linders, 1996, inclusive
Film Manufacturers Inc., 2001, inclusive
Invitation to Holly Solomon memorial, 2002, inclusive
Series VI: Press
Scope and Content
This series contains press relating to Christopher Knowles artwork and performances. Publications include, but are not limited to, the New York Times, Artforum, the Village Voice, Andy Warhol's Interview, The Guardian and the Boston Globe. Reviews of performances, publications and gallery shows are included here, as well interviews and profiles.
Arrangement
This series is arranged chronologically, with undated material at the back.
Robert Wilson Press, 1973-2013, inclusive
Byrd Hoffman Press, 1973-1994, inclusive
Life and Times of Joseph Stalin Dance Magazine, February 1974, inclusive
Tehran Journal, 1974, inclusive
New Yorker Robert Wilson profile, January 1975, inclusive
"Robert Wilson and Therapy" Drama Review, 1975, inclusive
Ear Magazine, 1975, inclusive
A Letter for Queen Victoria, Vogue, 1975, inclusive
Poetry Reading at St. Marks Church, 1975, inclusive
Robert Wilson's Moving Pictures, 1978, inclusive
Robert Wilson Semiotexte Interview, 1978, inclusive
Village Voice "Network", 1978, inclusive
Passages "Who is Robert Wilson?", 1979, inclusive
"Typings" reviews, 1979, inclusive
Chris Kadison review of "Typings", 1980, inclusive
Assorted Press Clippings, 1982, 1995-1999, inclusive
Cue: Official Magazine of Theta Alpha Phi, 1986, inclusive
Parzival press clippings, 1987, inclusive
Live 5 "Typings" review, 1987, inclusive
American Theatre "Secret Sharers", 1989, inclusive
Knot I Land press clippings, 1990, inclusive
New York Times "Grace for Grace", 1991, inclusive
Zeit Magazine by Bob Wilson, July 1991, inclusive
Vanity Fair Robert Wilson Profile, 1995, inclusive
New York Times clippings, 1998, 2002, inclusive
Watermill Center Brochure, c. 2000
Robert Wilson/Christopher Knowles Press Kit, c. 2002
John Russell's Frozen Tears II, 2004, inclusive
The New Yorker, June 28, 2004, inclusive
New York Magazine, July 2004, inclusive
Series VII: Personal, 1962-2001
Scope and Content
This series contains a small amount of material that is not directly related to Christopher Knowles' professional life as an artist. Most material dates from early childhood to adolescence and includes medical material such as neurological exams, as well as information concerning his early education. The only exception to this is the "biography file" which contains resumes in addition to material concerning his family and friends.
Medical - general, 1962-1990, inclusive
Philedelphia Institute material, 1964-1970, inclusive
Schooling, 1968-1980, inclusive
Birthday Calendar, 1976, inclusive
Christopher Knowles Resume, 1978-1991, inclusive
Biography files [resumes etc], 1979-2001, inclusive
Work session material, 1980, inclusive
Christopher Knowles earnings via Byrd Hoffman Foundation, 1980-1984, inclusive
Kimberton Hills, 1984, inclusive
Jury Exemption, 1995-2001, inclusive
Medical letter from Jay Kislak, 1998, inclusive
[Folder List], undated
Scope and Content
This folder contains a folder list compiled by the consulting archivist who worked with this collection prior to its arrival at Fales Library. It should be noted that this list will not correspond to the current arrangement.
Series VIII: Photographs, 1978-2009, inclusive
Scope and Content
This series includes professional photos of Knowles' artwork and exhibitions, as well as photographs of performances, Knowles' family and his travels for both professional and personal reasons. There are a small number of postcards included in the boxed photos.
Arrangement
This series is arranged by original order and in two subseries. Subseries A includes photographs in two binders as well as a box containing photographs arranged and labeled by Knowles, with the aid of a consulting archivist. Where possible, labels were put in place by Knowles, or transcribed.
Subseries A: Photographs
Performances, exhibits, 1978-1985, undated
Christopher Knowles, Cindy Lubar, Byrd Hoffman Byrds, Artwork Photographs, 1994, undated
Boxed photographs, 1987-2009
Subseries B: Slides
Artwork and Exhibits, 1981-1993, undated
Artwork, 1976-1994, undated
Series IX: Video recordings
Scope and Content
This series includes video recordings of performances in which Christopher Knowles took part. This includes performances in which he acted, like Parzival, but also performances for which he wrote text, or designed the set or the sound. They are largely in VHS format, with some DVDs.
Arrangement
The material is arranged adhering as close to original order as is possible.
"Chris Knowles in Buffalo Dreams, New York City", March 15, 1987, inclusive
Existence and Location of Copies
Access DVD available
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
Duration: 57 minutes
"Christopher Knowles/Rotterdam Show 85/Boymans, Rotterdam.", August 19, 1985
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"Dupe of Rotterdam Show; Dupe of G. Klauber tape of CK drawing for Rotterdam Show.", August 19, 1985
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"The Days Before, New York City.", 1999, inclusive
Existence and Location of Copies
Access DVD available
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
Duration: 115 minutes
"The Kitchen Presents: Einstien on the Beach & Spaceman Performance.", March 26, 1976, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"The Kitchen presents: Emily Likes the TV, New York City.", October 26, 1976, inclusive
Physical Facet
Existence and Location of Copies
Access DVD available
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"Klauber tape Chris Knowles drawing.", July 1985
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"A Letter for Queen Victoria / A Byrd Hoffman Production / December 16, 1974 / Paris", December 16, 1974, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"The Life and Times of Joseph Stalin / By Robert Wilson", December 1973, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"Nightshift, WCVB CH5 ; Knowles/Rutkowski", 1989?
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"Parzival, Berlin.", 1987, inclusive
Existence and Location of Copies
Access DVD available
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
Duration: 160 minutes
"Rescue : gala performance in aid of warchild / Royal Festival Hall.", July 5, 1997, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"Robert Wilson: Dialog with Lucinda Childs, Christopher Knowles, New York City.", February 19, 1976, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"Robert Wilson interviewed on the Charlie Rose Show", June 29, 1995, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"Sunshine Superman / by Richard Rutkowski.", undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"SUNSHINE SUPERMAN / a film by Richard Rutkowski / with Christopher Knowles", undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"SUNSHINE SUPERMAN / a film by Richard Rutkowski / with Christopher Knowles" [copy 2], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"T.S.E. / Casa de Stefano", 1994, inclusive
Existence and Location of Copies
Access DVD available
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
Duration: 130 minutes
"'THE WATCH MOVIE' 'SUNSHINE SUPERMAN' Shorts by Richard Rutkowsky", April 15, 2002, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"The Watch Movie & Sunshine Superman / by Richard Rutkowski.", undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: VHS
"My Friend Su, The Moon's Other Side", 2010, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: DVD-R
Series X: Sound recordings
Scope and Content
This series includes sound recordings collected or made by Christopher Knowles. The material exists largely in tape cassette format, with one audio reel. Much of the material was used in Knowles performances and are recordings of his own voice, recordings he made off the television and radio, or of ambient noise. There are also sound recordings of his performances.
Arrangement
The material is arranged adhering as close to original order as is possible.
Conditions Governing Access
Audio materials have not been preserved and may not be available to researchers.
Aquilarco (Akwilarco), undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: CD-R
Rule of 3, February 11, 1982, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audio reel
John Simon Drop the Gun Hands on Your Head Hands Against the Wall [Side 1: John Ashbery Side 2: John Simon], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
The Life and Times of Joseph Stalin, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Emily Likes the TV [Side A] Name: George Klauber [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Name John Klaber [Side A] Name Robert Ashly [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
The Musicfactory Hamburg Parzival, December 9, 1987, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Named Donald Crawford [Side A] Named Horace Solomon [Side B], unamed
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Chris Bday Tape for Emily's 15th Bday [Side A] "Emily Likes the TV + his involvement with Bob Wilson [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Chocolate Ice Cream George Klauber The Very Best of All Time [Side A] George Klauber [Side B], January 1981, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
b Frank Bell [Side A] Brady Bunch [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Drunk Driving [Drive A] Lester Klauber [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Christopher Knowles Collage - Parzival [Tape 1], 1987, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Christopher Knowles Collage - Parzival [Tape 2], 1987, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Mother Father R. Sisters Grandma [Side A] Top 7 of Saturday March 23rd 1968 Mother Father R. Sisters Grandma [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Chris' Parzival Collage - Hamburg, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
The $ Value of Man, May 17, 1975, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Network Extra, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Jay Smith and Parzival - Klaus Pohl, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
The Copy of Chris's Collages Parzival [Side A] The Copy of Johannes Waitz [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Named George Klaber, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Name Bud Snyder [Side A] Name Jerry Robbins [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Chris in France touring with "Letter for Queen Victoria," At the Self-Service Restuarant [Side A] "Curious George Goes to the Hospital" [Side B], 1974, February 1979, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Bday tape for Emily's 15th Bday [Side A] "Emily Likes the TV" and involvement with Bob Wilson [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Christopher Knowles, November 29, 1990, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Brady Bunch, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Adam Twelve Officers [Side A] George Klauber Name Great Best [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Mother Father Sisters R., undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Step-Grandmother Mother Father Aunts Uncles Sis. Saracuse, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Family Aunt Uncle Mom Dad Grand R. Grandma, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Chuck Miller [Side A] Bucky Miller [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Claude Thompson [Side A] Robert McCoy [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Net Work, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Net Work, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Quack! Quack!, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Uncle George Fredrick Blaurock, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Mary and Emily interviewing Christopher, 1978, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Christmas, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Bum, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Mother Father R. Sisters Grandma, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Mother Father R. Sisters Grandma, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Suitcase [Side A] Edward Knowles [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
"Network" Dialog, 1977, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Jay Moses [Side A] Paul Mancuso [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Mother Father Sisters R., undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Name George Klauber, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
The Flinstones Program tape from Christopher Knowles [Side A] The Mary Hartman program tape from Christopher Knowles [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
The Beatles first tape from Christopher Knowles [Side A] The Beatles second tape from Christopher Knowles [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Request Adam Twelve Officers [Side A] Request [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Jessye Norman Play Perform, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
The Life and Times of Joseph Stalin, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Cindy Lubar 1.Scream 2. "You See What I Did" 3."Hat Hath Hap" [Side A] Brady Bunch U.F.O. F.B.I. Agent [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Top 20 Countdown [Side A] Marvin Klauber [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Top 20 Songs, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Word Is Out, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Word Is Out, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Mother Father R. Sisters Grandma, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Speeding Up [illegible] Name David Bailey [Side A] Name Walter Orr [Side B], undated
Best Songs George Klauber [Side A] George Klauber [Side B], undated
I got Rhythm Curious George [Side A] George Klauber [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Mother Father Sisters R. Christmas, 1982, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Speeding Down, Up [Side A] The Brady Bunch The FBI Agent [Side B], 1976, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
The Tape Copy of The Sundance Kid, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
I Got Rhythm Apples, Peaches, Pumpkin Pie, February 9, 1979, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Family Sisters Mother Father, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Horace Solomon [Side A] George Klauber [B], 1979, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Parzival Copy Klaus Pohl Emily Likes the TV [Side A] Robert Chambers [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Horace Solomon [Side A] George Klauber And George Glauber [Side B], 1979, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Barbara Knowles [Side A] Sarah Knowles [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Lester Klauber [Side A] Margie Klauber [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Family Aunt Mom Uncle Dad Grand R. Grandma, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Blue Bleu Blau John Ashbery [Side A] Red Rouge Rot John Simon [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
The Self-Service Story, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Bernard Lubar [Side A] George Klauber [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Christopher Knowles [Side A] Paul Kiok [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Jerry McNeely [Side A] Early Rudolph [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Craig Crimmins [Side A] Rick James [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Can We Still Be Friends George Ashley [Side A] George Klauber [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Bob & Chris Sections 1, 2 & 3 Tra La La La La [Side A] Music Beatles P. McCartney R. Starr [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Curious George, June 12, 1980, inclusive
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Name George Harrison [Side A] Name Ringo Starr [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
The Brady Bunch, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Family Brother Sister Mother Father Oberlin, Ohio, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Name Frank Bell [Side A] Name [Illegible] Vance [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
The Beatles Third stape from Christopher Knowles [Side A] The Beatles Fourth stape from Christopher Knowles [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Popular Songs, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Emily Likes the T.V. [Side A] George Klauber [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Mother Father R. Sisters Grandma, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Family Sisters Mother Father, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Mary Knowles [Side A] Emily Knowles [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Koopy Parzival Klaus Pohl [Side A] Bernard Goetz [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
First and Foremost, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Barbara Knowles Copy, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Christopher and Linda Bell, 1978-1979
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Saturday March 14th 1953 to Friday March 14th 2003 10 Presidents of USA, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Then/Now, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Quack! Quack!, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
6 Songs of Wed. February 18th 1976 [Side A] The Profile of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Named Isabelle Knowles [Side A] Named Holly Solomon [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
John Ashbery [Side A] John Simon [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Mother Father Sisters R. Christmas '82, 1982
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Mark Chapman [Side A] Keith Burman [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Alcestis First Text Prologue [Side A] Beth Laub [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Danae Wilson, undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Jim Neu Best of All Time [Side A] Brady Bunch Cindy Expert Tattletale [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Jerry McNeely [Side A] Kathy Novak [Side B], undated
Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements
Original Format: 1/4" audiocassette
Series XI: Data Storage, tbd
Arrangement
This series was arranged to as to maintain original order as much as possible.
Conditions Governing Access
Born-digital materials have not been preserved and may not be available to researchers.
C. Knowles, June 3, 2002, inclusive
CK Parzival Portrait 1987 and St Mark's Church RDG 1975, 1975, 1987
Chris Knowles Scans #1, undated
Chris Knowles Scans #2, undated
Chris Knowles Scans #3, undated
Chris Knowles Scans #4, undated
Chris Knowles' Books Disk #1 Stills, undated
Chris Knowles' Books #2 Stills, undated
Chris Knowles' Books Disk #3 Stills, undated
Christopher Knowles Archive, January 2002, inclusive
Christmas 2000, 2000, inclusive
Christopher Knowles '77 Maplethorpe [sic], undated
Series XIV: Books, 1973-2011, inclusive
Language of Materials
Extent
Scope and Contents
This series contains several volumes donated with the collection.
Checkpoint Charley, undated
Dworkin, Craig, and Kenneth Goldsmith. Against Expression, 2011, inclusive
Esopus 20: Special Collections (Fall 2013), 2013, inclusive
Glass, Philip. Music by Philip Glass, 1987, inclusive
Hindsight May 1976-April 1977, 1976, inclusive
Ibsen, Henrik. When We Dead Awaken, 1991, inclusive
Knowles, Christopher. Drawings, 1985, inclusive
Knowles, Christopher. Typings (1974-1977), 1974, inclusive
Kotik, Charlotta and Tumelo Mosaka. Open House: Working in Brooklyn, 2004, inclusive
Live: Performance Art 1, 2, 4, 5, 6/7, 1979-1982, inclusive
MuseumJournaal No. 26/2, 1981, inclusive
Of Mice and Men, 2006, inclusive
Of Mice and Men: Exhibition Guide, 2006, inclusive
Rattemeyer, Christian. The Judith Rothschild Foundation Contemporary Drawings Collection: Catalogue Raisonne, undated
Robert Wilson o il teatro del tempo, 1999, inclusive
Roof VI: 27 poems by 18 poets, Spring 1978, 1978, inclusive
Shyer, Laurence. Robert Wilson and his Collaborators, 1989, inclusive
So & So Fall 1978, 1978, inclusive
St. Mark's Church Poetry and Danspace Projects Eye and Ear Theater, Inc. A Tribute to Edwin Denby, 1983, inclusive
Two Conversations with Edwin Denby, 1973, inclusive
Valencia 09/Confines, 2009, inclusive
Unmuzzled Ox vol. IV no. 3, 1977, inclusive
Wilson, Robert. 14 Stations, 2000, inclusive
Wilson, Robert. 70 Angels on the Façade: Domus 1928-1998, 1998, inclusive
The World #31, 1978, inclusive
OVERSIZE: Series I
Clubs Spades Diamonds Hearts, May 1974, inclusive
Language of Materials
The Sundance Kid, April 1974, inclusive
Language of Materials
13 Chapters, January-February, 1975, inclusive
Language of Materials
[Song List], c. 1972
[Dialog/Curious George], c. 1979
Happy 28th Birthday..., May 1987, inclusive
[20 Faces in Pen...], c. 1988
Language of Materials
Book II, undated
Language of Materials
Brother, Sister, Mother, Father..., undated
Language of Materials
This is Christopher's Book & At the Beach Book, undated
Language of Materials
This Magic Moment..., undated
Language of Materials
OVERSIZE: Series II
Subseries A: Performances with Christopher Knowles
$ Value of Man Poster, 1975, inclusive
Avalance "Because Why" with Bob Wilson, 1975, inclusive
De Hoek Van de Straat 5 "Dialog/Network", 1976, inclusive
Emily Likes the TV Poster, undated
Knot I Land Poster & Program, undated
A Letter for Queen Victoria, undated
Mehdi Khonsari Photos of "A Mad Man, A Mad Dog...", 1974, inclusive
Dialog/Curious George Poster, 1980
Language of Materials
Subseries B: Performances without Christopher Knowles
Byrd Hoffman School of Byrds Programs, 1972, undated
Riding the Right Horse Poster, August 1979, inclusive
OVERSIZE: Series III
Gavin Brown's Enterprise Posters, 2004
4 Typings Shown at Gladstone Gallery, 2006, inclusive
OVERSIZE: Series IV
Arrangement
This series contains three bags of color paper cut outs used by Knowles in an exhibit at the Museum Boymans in Rotterdamn. They are listed here as folders 1 through 4 in box 15.
