Watch Kehinde Wiley: An Economy of Grace

Kehinde Wiley: An Economy of Grace is a documentary film directed by Jeff Dupre that explores the life and work of Kehinde Wiley, one of the most important contemporary artists of our time. The film was released in 2014 and has since received critical acclaim for its insightful look at Wiley’s creative process and life story.

The film begins by introducing Kehinde Wiley and his unique style of painting, which is characterized by large-scale portraits of African American men and women in classical poses. Wiley’s work draws inspiration from the grand tradition of Western oil painting and reimagines it with a contemporary twist. Through interviews with Wiley and his collaborators, we learn about his creative process and his philosophy of art.

One of the key themes of the film is Wiley’s interest in the female form. He has described his work as an “economy of grace,” meaning that he seeks to capture the beauty and elegance of his subjects through his paintings. The film explores this theme in depth, showing how Wiley works with models to create his iconic portraits.

We see how Wiley selects his subjects, often choosing women from the streets of New York City or from his travels around the world. He is drawn to women who exude a sense of confidence and strength, and he works closely with them to create poses that reflect their personality and character.

As we watch Wiley at work, we also learn about his personal journey as an artist. He was born in Los Angeles in 1977 and grew up in South Central, a neighborhood that was often plagued by violence and poverty. Despite these challenges, Wiley was encouraged by his mother to pursue his passion for art, and he went on to study at some of the most prestigious art schools in the country.

Throughout his career, Wiley has been a trailblazer for African American artists, challenging the art world to recognize the beauty and complexity of black culture. His work has been exhibited in museums around the world, and he has been the subject of numerous documentaries and articles.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its visual beauty. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the vibrant colors and textures of Wiley’s paintings. The film also features a mesmerizing score by the composer Antonio Pinto, which adds to the film’s dreamlike quality.

Another highlight of the film is its interviews with colleagues and collaborators of Wiley. We hear from art historians and curators about the significance of his work, and from models who have worked with him about their experiences. These interviews paint a vivid picture of Wiley’s impact on the art world and the people he has touched through his art.

At its core, Kehinde Wiley: An Economy of Grace is a celebration of the power of art to transform lives. It is a tribute to one of the most important artists of our time and a reminder of the enduring importance of creativity and imagination. Whether you are an art lover or simply curious about the creative process, this film is a must-see.

Kehinde Wiley: An Economy of Grace is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 53 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.