About Black Art: In the Absence of Light (HBO)

"Black Art: In the Absence of Light" is an HBO documentary film released in 2021. The film, directed by Sam Pollard, celebrates Black Art and its contribution to the American art scene. The film’s narrative is inspired by the seminal exhibition "Two Centuries of Black American Art," organized by the late David Driskell in 1976. The movie showcases works of profound beauty, power, and resonance, and explores deeply the profound impact of black art on contemporary American culture.

Making / Production

Directed by the esteemed documentary filmmaker Sam Pollard, this film was produced by HBO documentary films. The producers sought to emphasize not just the importance of black art to the American artistic landscape, but also the struggles and triumphs of black artists across generations.

Actors

• Sam Pollard - The director, also known as a storyteller, effectively communicates the untold stories of numerous black artists.
• David Driskell - Curator of the pivotal exhibition in 1976, his work and influence are the foundation of the film.
• Kerry James Marshall - A renowned artist who shares his experiences and his insights into the impact of black art in America.
• Kehinde Wiley - Famous for his portrait of President Obama, Wiley discusses the importance of representation in art.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This film fittingly debuted during Black History Month in 2021.
• It is directly inspired by the groundbreaking 1976 exhibition "Two Centuries of Black American Art".
• The film features interviews with some of the most prominent black artists of our time.

Awards

Thus far, "Black Art: In the Absence of Light" has earned wide critical acclaim but has not yet received any awards. The future, however, holds promising possibilities.

Quotes

• Kerry James Marshall: “If the image isn't there, then you have to make it ... I knew I had to get those images into the museum one way or another."
• David Driskell: "African American art was not accepted in the mainstream as an integral part of American art".

Music and Soundtrack

The music and soundtrack of the film "Black Art: In the Absence of Light" superbly compliment the theme and tone of the documentary. They underscore the creativity, complexity, and richness of the art and artists featured. Specifics about the soundtrack are not disclosed.