Dear Sir:

Pez, though of Austrian origin, has long been a producer and custodian of American icons. As a sculptor who works with American cultural themes, your contribution toward our national heritage has greatly inspired me over the years. Within the great variety of Pez dispensers produced since 1952 there has been little representation of African-American culture (save the "Psychedelic Eye with Black Hand" and the "Misfit Witch with Brilliant Black Head"). It is with this in mind that I present to you the "Fallen Rapper Series." The enclosed prototypes include the rappers Biggie Smalls, Eazy-E, and Tupac Shakur. Each of these deceased musicians has been an important contributor to the evolution of Rap music, furthermore, each has given their life for their art. These small memorials will act as reminders of our diverse heritage and pay tribute to what is perhaps the most innovative form of contemporary American music.

My proposal is a simple one: Pez manufactures the series, working from the prototypes. As my main interest is the production of the line I only ask for a modest remuneration. I am sure you can appreciate the time and effort I have invested in order to provide Pez Candy Inc. with this unique collaborative opportunity. I eagerly await your response to my proposed line. Your insight into this proposal should prove invaluable to my continuous endeavor to realize American culture. Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Michael Durham

Dear Sir:

Life's many confluence's flow and ebb around us as the seasons envelop one another. In this very manor a year has past since I wrote you last. Approximately 365 days ago you received my sculptures and proposal for the "Fallen Rapper Pez" series, featuring the portraits of Tupac Shakur, Eazy-E, and Biggie Smalls (Notorious B.I.G.). Each replica is meticulously crafted, lending to its in-artificiality in form and countenance (or manifestation). I am sure I needn't remind you of the historical significance of these influential African-American artists.

In the time that has past I have sent only one phone message, as I am sure you are a busy man and did not want to pester you. Now that a year has gone by I presume you have had ample time to consider my proposal. I feel the hundred hours of sweat equity I have imbued to these sculptures merits a response. Have they gone missing? Should I send more? How do your subordinates feel about the prospect? Please send correspondence as soon as you are able to my new address (I moved). Thank you for your time.

Sincerely, Michael Durham

p.s. I think we could really be on to something.

Dear Laura,

It has been some time since I wrote you last. Enclosed is a copy of my letter from July 25th for your reference. I am writing merely to continue my same query; is Pez Candy Inc. interested in reviewing some of my innovative ideas for Pez dispensers. I have taken your advice and concentrated on the three to six year old range and have come up with a number of interesting ideas (don't worry, I have just been brainstorming and have not made the prototypes yet, I learned that lesson). Though I was without the information I requested (i.e. flavors, seasonal Pez, and types of icons), I'm sure you will agree that my proposals are both appropriate and exciting. But, before I get to these wonderful new dispensers, perhaps some insight into my process would be of interest.

In directing my focus on this decidedly young age group I felt the best way to see what a child wants was to think like a child. Believe me Laura, six was a long time ago, and three, well, three years longer (ha, ha.). But with the help of a hypnotist I had quite a profound experience reliving parts of my early childhood (the doctor said I was the most co-operative subject he has ever had). Though the popular themes of children from my generation are surely different than children's popular culture today, I believe that the basic enticements to human children are universal, namely color and fun. But children also need roll models. With these basic principals in mind, here's what I came up with (this is just for starters. I can barely sleep I have so many ideas running through my head):

One: Who are the greatest "non-violent" roll models of all times? Jesus and God, of course! What child would not benefit from gazing at the image of our lord as they enjoy their candy? My sister thought it would be strange to pull back their heads, exposing a treat that is plucked from their necks, but I believe it is consistent with the spirit of communion; eating the body of Christ. At any rate, you canÕt deny that these are the types of figures for three to six year olds to emulate.

Two: Mexicans. Here is a fun and colorful group of people who are becoming more and more a part of America. Your Mexican boy is a start, but you are only skimming the surface of a very festive people. I see you also carry a Sheik and the Maharajah. I think it is an excellent idea getting young Americans accustom to dealing with other cultures.

Three: The Presidents. Here is a long line of prestigious fellows for youngsters to gawk at and admire. I can picture these toddlers imagining an all-star working vacation in Texas, perhaps hosting an all-presidential rodeo. It is never to early to start giving children goals for their ambition.

Some other thoughts: Looking at your list of available Pez I saw the Bicentennial collection with: Indian squaw, Indian Brave, Indian Chief, and finally the wounded soldier. This seems unfair. I am all for equality and the rights of these Indians, but perhaps there should be a regular soldier and a wounded Indian to make things even. And, not to harp on the subject, but two of these same Indians are repeated in the Circus group, where the only American is the ringmaster. Perhaps a soldier could be put into this group between the monkey and the lion.

Well, there's my start and I can't wait to hear what you think. If you are happy with what I came up with and want to talk, then write to me and read no further.

If however, you are not interested (your long delay in response to my last letter could be taken several ways) then I would like to take a minute to make my position clear. I appreciate honesty, above all else. You can be straight with me. But, for all my efforts, please do me the following courtesy: 1. Give me some honest feedback on my ideas (I can take it! Don't spare my feelings, please.) 2. Let me know where the Fallen Rapper Prototypes went (Garbage, Storage, Desk, or Cabinet, I can take it. Don't worry I gave them to you to do with what you will. I would just like to know.)

Thank you very much for your time and your honesty, Michael Durham

p.s. say "hello" to Mr. Scott Mc Whinnie for me!