My journey to learn as much as I could about erotic art, ephemera, film, and literature led me to meet Dr. Harry Rand, Curator of Division of Political and Military History, National Museum for American History. I was introduced to Rand by The Exodus Trust, a non-profit California Trust with the sole purpose of performing educational, scientific, and literary functions related to sexual, emotional, mental, and physical health. The Exodus Trust housed one of the world’s most remarkable special collections, and Rand was a known advocate for preserving this unique archive.
At the time, I was living in the Bay Area and flew to Maryland to meet my cousin, an incredible multimedia artist from Raleigh, North Carolina, so we could journey to D.C. together. We planned a week full of cultural immersion, visiting museums and soaking in as much inspiration as possible. For me, these museum visits were essential as I curated comprehensive exhibitions for my dissertation. Our itinerary revolved around a 9:00 a.m. meeting with Rand. I assumed it would be nothing more than an hour of pleasantries, but to my surprise, the meeting lasted the entire day!
Rand greeted my cousin and me in the museum lobby. As my cousin left to explore the National Mall, we agreed I would call him when my meeting ended. Again, I assumed the meeting with Rand would only last an hour, max. However, instead of heading to a conference room, Rand took me on an unexpected tour of the museum. As we strolled through the exhibits, he would point to a piece of art and ask, “Is that erotic? If so, why or why not?” This impromptu quiz continued for quite some time, and I honestly enjoyed every moment of it. I had never been tested so spontaneously, and it felt exhilarating to share my insights with someone of such esteem.
After the knowledge tour, we moved to his office for more in-depth conversation. He listened intently as I outlined the project I was designing, developing, and curating. I was thrilled to discover his interest in Starlight Films—the 16mm stag films of the 1960s—and his familiarity with The Exodus Trust. Knowing that someone at The Smithsonian recognized the value of the Trust’s special collections was incredibly satisfying.
Before we concluded our meeting, Rand handed me his curriculum vitae. I skimmed through several pages of impressive academic achievements, scholarly publications, and accolades. As I was leaving, he asked, “How did you get here? You don’t have the pedigree.” I smiled and responded, “I came through the front door.” He gave me a sly grin, and we bid each other farewell.
To this day, I am always on the lookout for Starlight Films because of Rand. They were difficult to find back then, and they are even rarer now. This obscure film series has become a prized treasure among die-hard collectors. There is something so pristine about 1960s sexploitation—a cornucopia of avant-garde innocence and tease. I continue to hope that Rand will one day publish a book on this genre, particularly on the Starlight Films. It would undoubtedly be an intellectually stimulating read.
Pertinent Information:
Rumpelstiltskin’s Secret: What Women Didn’t Tell the Grimms, Book by Rand
Hundertwasser, Book by Rand
Paul Manship, Publisher’s Weekly
The Pictures in the Paintings, New York Times
Featured Image Above: Courtesy Grindhouse Cellars | Featured Image Left: Vintage 16mm Peepshow Reel: “Starlight 511 BBP” (ca. 1960’s ) (EKTACHROME color stock; silent, color, 400′) The paper that comes with the film indicates “D.S. 16 Dionne Britian” — or, perhaps, ‘Dianne Brition’ — in any case the film showcases a hard-edged blonde captured in stark lighting that highlights her features and clothing in dramatic relief. Peepshows by this point we less delicate in their attention to the genital zone, but there are no completely unvelied, explicit shots here beyond what you see in these images. This is a splendid example of the early 1960’s peepshow arcade booth film. The film is divided into segments corresponding to the successive coins that the lovelorn viewer dropped into the machine to spend time in the virtual presence of this model. This film also comes with a sinple envelope / record card bearing a hand-written name for the model. A fascinating document of the period. Film is complete with a simple title card but no end leader (having been looped). Image quality is superb! Runs fine. I have re-cut the loop into its proper sequence so it begins with the title card. Comes on a 7″ reel. 8martini8-Vintage 8mm & 16mm Stag Films. > Worth Point