The Minkins

For a few years (circa '91-'94), background decorations were hung at the back of the stage. Crafted by Mike's mother Marjorie Minkin, they were thus referred to as "the Minkins".

Originally on canvas and later on glass, "the Minkins" were loved because they are so moving, yet abstract enough that any two viewers see different things - enormous pastel swashes, arguably spelling Phish and arguably about absolutely nothing particular. Fishman described them as "big translucent weird shape things that the light plays with and stuff." (Rockline, 3/22/94)

Nonetheless, reportedly because they distract from the band's presence (and from the integration of the lights) and so are no longer used.

"There are times and places in which the imagination comes to the assistance of reality and makes dreams come true."
-- Alberta Ferreti