Gerd Stern, a pivotal figure in the Beat Generation and cofounder of USCO, died on February 17 in Manhattan. He was known for his vibrant personality and artistic ventures, which included managing Maya Angelou’s early career and collaborating with Harry Partch on unique musical projects. Born in Germany and fleeing the Nazis, Stern's tumultuous life led him to embrace poetry and multimedia art. He innovatively merged art forms and created iconic psychedelic experiences, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. His spirit of opportunity and creativity was encapsulated in his personal philosophy about seizing chances in life.
"I keep thinking of things when opportunity knocks - that's how I function... And I often do the knocking myself."
An exuberant and colorful figure, Stern lent his vivid imagination and larger-than-life personality to such disparate enterprises as managing the cabaret career of a young Maya Angelou..."
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