Acid Horizon A Life in Rebellion: Up Against the Wall Motherfucker, Black Mask, and the Surrealist Struggle in 1960-70s New York
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Nov 6, 2025 Ben Morea, a veteran radical artist and activist, shares his journey through Black Mask and Up Against the Wall Motherfucker, where he fused art with activism during the tumultuous 1960s–70s. Abigail Susick, a scholar of surrealism, reflects on the impact of political art, while Breanne Fahs connects feminism and sabotage to radical practices. They dive into guerrilla tactics, critique the commodification of art, and explore the role of psychedelics in consciousness. Their spirited discussion unveils the importance of humor and spontaneity in contemporary protests.
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Lincoln Center Garbage Action
- Ben recounts how Black Mask evolved into Up Against the Wall after activists dumped garbage at Lincoln Center to expose gentrification.
- The phrase "Up Against the Wall, Motherfucker" appeared on a leaflet and became the group's identifying cry and accidental name.
Art As A Living Human Need
- Ben argues commodified art severs art from life's vital needs and reduces it to a monetary token.
- He frames authentic art as an essential human need akin to breathing and spiritual connection.
Psychedelics To Break Social Molding
- Ben describes psychedelics as a tool to break societal brainwashing and repression.
- He sees microdosing and other psychotropics as ways to free consciousness from controlling social molds.
