Making Strange: Warhol Refracting is a screening programme with film curator Alice Butler. As one of the most recognisable artists of the twentieth century Andy Warhol is a figure whose work, persona and signature appearance feels known on some level by audiences around the world. This film series explores what might be revealed when we look at Warhol at a remove or in refraction; through the work of his friends, the city with whom his identity is so intertwined and through artists making work today whose themes or ideas connect with or expand upon those Warhol was inspired by.
Join us for a screening of documentary film Boom for Real: The Late Teenage Years of Jean Michel Basquiat, 2017 (Dir. Sara Driver, dur.78 mins).
BOOM FOR REAL: THE LATE TEENAGE YEARS OF JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT follows Basquiat’s life pre-fame and how New York City, the times, the people and the movements surrounding him formed the artist he became. Using never-before-seen works, writings and photographs, director Sara Driver, who was part of the New York arts scene herself, worked closely and collaboratively with friends and other artists who emerged from that period: Jim Jarmusch, James Nares, Fab Five Freddy, Glenn O’Brien, Kenny Scharf, Lee Quinones, Patricia Field, Luc Sante and many others. Drawing upon their memories and anecdotes, the film also uses period film footage, music and images to visually re-recreate the era, drawing a portrait of Jean-Michel and Downtown New York City -pre AIDS, President Reagan, the real estate and art booms – before anyone was motivated by money and ambition. The definition of fame, success and power were very different than today – to be a penniless but published poet was the height of success, until everything changed in the early 1980s. This is New York City’s story before that change.
With an introduction and post screening discussion with Film Curator Alice Butler.
Free, book or come on the day subject to availability.
