Watching feature length films about artists (as opposed to documentaries) is a great way to learn about art history.
I’m not against documentaries of course, but films can be a bit more creative with the truth yet somehow get a more insightful representation of the artist and their work.
It’s also great to encourage your friends and family to watch with you who may not be into the documentary style.
Here’s my short list to get you started.
Loving Vincent, (2017)
This is by far my favourite. It’s just beautful and every still was hand painted by an artist and then made into an animation…amazing! Loving Vincent (2017) – IMDb
Frida, (2002)
My second favourite, mainly because of the beautiful colours and it feels very cool. Frida (2002) – IMDb
Mr Turner, (2014)
I didn’t actually enjoy this film much (it’s pretty grim!) but it sticks in my mind and still worth a watch to learn about this very British artist. Mr. Turner (2014) – IMDb
Mrs Lowry & Son, (2019)
Another rather grim, British representation of an artist’s life and also featuring Timothy Spall but an revealing insight into a popular artist.
Beautiful Losers, (2008)
Very different from the above, this film follows a group of ‘outside’ artists working in a sort of collective and how they affected the wider art world. Beautiful Losers (2008) – IMDb
At Eternity’s Gate, (2008)
Another one about Van Gogh but honestly, even two films doesn’t seem to cover this guy’s life. At Eternity’s Gate (2018) – IMDb
What Dreams May Come, (1998)
Not specifically about a famous artist, but beautiful and insightful about the relationship between emotion, memory and art. What Dreams May Come (1998) – IMDb
Pollock, (2000)
I can take or leave this one, but again, you learn about the life behind the artist Jackson Pollock. Pollock (2000) – IMDb
Girl with The Pearl Earring, (2003)
Beautiful film. More about the assumed relationship between Vermeer and his model, but an interesting view into the life of the artist. Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003) – IMDb
Big Eyes, (2004)
An interesting think piece on ownership and authorship in art as well as the inherent patriarchy in the art world. Big Eyes (2014) – IMDb
I’m sure I’ve left out loads, but this is my list of the more important and significant. Have I missed out one that I must watch? Let me know!