A House That Memorializes a Vanished New York

In Lower Manhattan, the former home of artist couple ET Hendricks and Nye Ffarrabas remains unchanged years after their deaths. Hendricks, associated with the Fluxus movement, and Ffarrabas staged a performance art piece called 'Flux Divorce' in 1971, which involved a dramatic act of dividing their marriage bed. They later renovated their home to reflect the style of the 1820s, aiming to preserve its historical essence rather than modernize it. Buczak, who moved in with Hendricks, contributed to the home's aesthetic by painting the children's room blue and stenciling floral motifs on the floors, inspired by early 19th-century art. The house, a Federal-style building, stands in stark contrast to the surrounding luxury condos and wellness studios. A notable text painting by Lawrence Weiner adorns the facade, encapsulating the artistic spirit of the neighborhood. Both Buczak and Hendricks have since passed away, with Buczak succumbing to AIDS in 1987 and Hendricks to cancer and heart failure in 2018. Despite their absence, the home serves as a monument to a bygone era of New York, preserving the life and creativity they shared. The couple's artistic endeavors and personal history are reflected in the preserved state of their residence, which continues to evoke memories of a vibrant artistic community. This house not only memorializes their contributions to the art world but also stands as a testament to the cultural shifts in Lower Manhattan over the decades, highlighting the contrast between past and present.