Geoffrey Dorfman's 2005 Memorial Speech Honors Milton Resnick's Contradictions and Teaching Legacy

On March 12, 2005, a memorial service for painter Milton Resnick took place at St. Marks in the Bowery, featuring Geoffrey Dorfman as a speaker. The event included remarks from Ed Rudolph, David Reed, and Vija Celmins, with Ralph Martin serving as the master of ceremonies. Dorfman discussed a 112-page collection of tributes he created alongside Pat Passlof, focusing on shared experiences. He portrayed Resnick's intricate character and his perspectives on art, music, and education. Although Resnick preferred Russian composers, he prohibited music in his studio and advised emerging artists on the pressures of creativity. He believed that art should uncover deeper truths and regarded painting as an instinctive endeavor. Dorfman concluded that Resnick's artistic philosophy would continue to inspire future generations of artists.