Taurin James Cassidy

Taurin J. Cassidy, better known to his friends as Erastes Cinaedi, left us on February 13, 2008 in Lakeside, AZ in order to meet his beloved wife Nancy in time for Valentines Day. Born in Hammond, Illinois on May 6, 1947, he moved to New York City at an early age and used his creativity to make a lasting impression on all that he met. In 1992 he and Nancy moved to Phoenix, AZ. Erastes began showing his one of a kind pieces in many of the earliest galleries including 11e Ashland, M.A.R.S., Alwun House, Thoughtcrime and eventually branched out to the then fledging now international gallery Art One. In 2006 Erastes moved to Concho Valley and opened his gallery Piece o' Mind. Though only opened for one season, his impact on local artists far surpassed his dream. Erastes had a gift of vision that did not rely on his eyes alone- psychic fluxus comes to mind. He is survived by his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Walter and Maureen Wallace; two nieces, Julia and Jessica all of Staten Island, New York in addition to a rich family of friends that will miss him greatly, but vow to carry on the tradition of magic and beauty he leaves us and in the tradition of his Romany heritage we choose not to say goodbye but instead we are left with his voice saying " ja develesa nevo drom." A memorial service will be held at the Piece o' Mind Gallery, 65 Bonita Lane, Concho, AZ, on Saturday March 22, 2008 from 3 P.M. to 8 P.M.