Free Films Expand on Themes in Contemporary Art

The gallery has a fresh line-up of free film screenings that are sure to excite all art lovers. Covering a broad spectrum of artistic genres, these films explore themes in contemporary art and expose current artists working in all mediums to a broader, North American audience. 

Upcoming film screenings include:

Saturday, Dec 7 - 1:00 pm
Robert Motherwell and the New York School

In 1991, Robert Motherwell was seen as only surviving member of the New York Abstract Expressionist movement. Known for his graphically expressive works, Motherwell along with other artistic giants including Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Mark Rothko and Franz Kline, found themselves on the battleground of American art in the 1940's. The results of their efforts set American painting on an international scale, shifting the centre of modern art to New York City.

The film charts the growth of the Abstract Expressionist movement through the personal stories of Motherwell. Through interviews and film footage, the artist also provides insight into his own struggles and triumphs, along with his creative process. The screening serves not only to document the rich artistic scene of post- WWII New York, but also the personal story of one of the greatest champions of modern American art.

Produced by PBS, the Art 21 series seeks to explore and highlight contemporary art and artists in an accessible and creative manner. Under the title "Art is for the many, not the few,' the artists featured in the series reflect current practices in visual art, offering new philosophies and practices. 

Thursday, Dec 12, 7:00 pm
Art21: Place

Our first installment of the Art 21 series, addresses the idea of 'place' in contemporary art. How do artists address themes such as land, home and national identity in their works? From which locations do artists gather inspiration? This episode will examine the function of 'place' in the life of artists Laurie Anderson, Richard Serra, Sally Mann, Barry McGee, Margaret Kilgallen, and Pepón Osorio.

Saturday, Dec 14, 1:00 pm
Art21: Structures
Through this episode we will explore the idea of 'structure' and how contemporary artists define daily routines and interactions in their practices. These artists investigate space in their work, engaging with perception, shifting scale and context to make connections to the world around them.
Featured artists include Matthew Ritchie, Fred Wilson, Richard Tuttle, and Roni Horn. With an introduction by Sam Waterson, this installment is sure to turn challenge your notions of how space is utilized in visual art.

Saturday, Jan 11, 1:00 pm
Art21: Consumption
This installment examines the culture of consumerism in the United States, bringing to light the different ways in which popular culture influences contemporary art. Five artists, including Barbara Kruger, Michael Ray Charles, Matthew Barney, Andrea Zittel, and Mel Chin share how consumption affects their lives, practice, and choice of subject matter.

For more information about upcoming events at the gallery, check out our calendar of events.