What I've Been Watching

When I am sewing I have a couple of different habits. I f I am trying to come up with a new idea or design, I listen to music. But if I am sewing something that doesn't require me to sit at a table, I like to watch films. It's a shame I don't speak every language in the world because then I could watch non English language films. Unfortunately reading subtitles and sewing don't often mix! It's a pity because I love to watch films from other countries.  So that leaves me with things in English. Recently these documentaries have had a big impact on me and reminded to just make the work. It's worth noting that each of these documentaries was either directed or co-directed by a woman. 

Kusama - Infinity

I love Yayoi Kusama's work. This film does a good job of following the artist's life. I have read her autobiography but I think it's helpful with visual artists to be able to experience their work even it if it is on a screen. Her struggles as woman in a male dominated world, being from Japan at a time when her home country was very conservative and her struggles with mental illness make for a moving and humbling portrayal. If you have ever, like me, used pathetic excuses not to create, this documentary gives you some important perspective. 

20,000 Days on Earth

I cannot convey adequately how important Nick Cave's work has been to me since my teens. I love this film so much and find it quite poignant. He's charisma exudes from the screen but it is his narrative throughout this creative documentary that stay with me. The last 15 minutes are particularly impactful. Again, another sermon to getting down to work and trusting one's creative self.

Boom for Real: The Late Teenage Yeas of Jean-Michel Basquiat

There are people who changed visual art forever. Basquiat was one of these people. I like how this documentary showed his growth, his tenacity and self-confidence. I also loved to see how much he was loved as a person as well as for his art.  Also the soundtrack is great.