Radical Software Vol. 1 Nos. 1-5, Vol. 2 Nos. 1 -6 [Complete Run]

Beryl Korot, Phyllis Gershuny, Michael Shamberg, Megan Williams, Louis Jaffe, Ira Schneider, Dean Evenson, Dudley Evenson, Jodie Sibert, Ann Arlen, Billy Adler, John Margolies, Van Schley, Ilene Segalove, Juan Downey, Frank Gillette, eds.

New York: Raindance Corporation / Raindance Foundation / Gordon & Breach, 1970 - 1974. Eleven issues; nos. 1-3 in tabloid format, all else saddle-stapled or perfect bound. Various sizes, ranging from 8 ⅜ x 11 in. to 11 x 15 ½ in. 22; 26; 26; 16; 120; 72; 64; 64; 70; 64 + [4]; 68 + [4] pp. Item level-inventory available upon request.

A complete run of this rare, beautifully illustrated, and thoughtful radical video arts publication featuring important writings on cybernetics and mass media. Contributors include Nam June Paik, Douglas Davis, Paul Ryan, Frank Gillette, Beryl Korot, Charles Bensinger, Ira Schneider, Ann Tyng, R. Buckminster Fuller, Gregory Bateson, Aldo Tambellini, Gene Youngblood, Parry Teasdale, Ant Farm, the Videofreex and many others.

Founded by Beryl Korot, Phyllis Segura (Gershuny), and Ira Schneider in the spring of 1970 - around the time of the rise of cable television and not long after the birth of home video and the Sony Porta-Pak - Radical Software served as a central node in the alternative television movement and the primary platform to critically discuss “media ecology,” the relationship between humanity and its media environment.

With calls for new information economies to liberate data from private property, articles on video in prison (Bedford Hills Correctional Facility for Women), video outreach, and “Community Control of Television,” Radical Software represented a wholesale attempt to rethink the way in which the world is recorded and communicated.

Though focused on video art, the magazine featured frequent writings on the power of information technology, and the push to resist the influencing effects of mainstream corporate media - sentiments that remain relevant in our increasingly digital world. In fact, in a 2010 interview, founding editor Beryl Korot admitted, “The computer, actually, is much closer to what Radical Software was about than what’s become of the video medium.” 

The final issue, entitled ‘Video & Kids,” looks to the future, with much consideration given to radical pedagogy. The volume includes an essay entitled “Teaching and Reflecting” - indicative, in fact, of the revolutionary mission of the magazine to reshape information technology.

A hugely influential periodical, a document of early video art and a powerful tool for anyone reflecting on the past, present, and future of alternative media. 

All issues very good to near fine; some toning to newsprint wraps and light edge wear to several issues. A small spot of soiling near the spine of Vol. 2 No. 5; chipping to bottom of spine of Vol. 1, No. 5 and discoloration to rear wrap; minor loss to the cover of Vol. 2, No. 6; and a small piece of tape at outer edge of front wrap of Vol. 1, No. 4. Otherwise issues are clean and tight throughout. Scarce in any condition.