The art of that time was based on zen-like fascinations, so it was also part fun part, part 120% seriousness. I know one of the artists that was in the Fluxus group and I think their greatest achievement was that they managed to incorporate contradictions. They helped out all day preparing Stockhausen's concert and took part in the demonstrations outside that another of their friends had organised saying that the avant garde only was for the upper class and that black funk and soul music was the true art.

I can easily see Zappa just taking the decision to switch on that axis.