General Idea's Pilot
Announcement card published in conjunction with the airing of Pilot that was commissioned by TVOntario for broadcast on late night television. The card lists the various channels (frequencies) on which it might be seen in different cities lending an air of comme il faut to the whole project that ends up resembling proper, wholesome TV. Letterpress. Printed only recto. Discolored area verso else crisp and excellent.
(...) Through this structure, Pilot conveys key facts about General Idea. For instance, the artists date their collaboration to 1968. They also explain their intention to work together until 1984, which, Zontal says, is a “convenient way to format the future.” The video introduces several key projects by General Idea. These include FILE Megazine, which General Idea calls their “own media device.” Introducing the “Glamour Issue,” the artists discuss their legal battle with Time Life Incorporated over their appropriation of LIFE magazine’s logo. The video also introduces the V.B. Gowns (venetian-blind costumes created by the group), architectural studies for The 1984 Miss General Idea Pavillion. Other key elements of the group’s work are featured, such as The 1984 Miss General Idea Pageant.
[Smith, 2016]