Watch Waiting for Hockney

Waiting for Hockney is a 2008 documentary that explores the art world and the passion that drives artists to create. The film follows artist Billy Pappas on his journey to create a hyperrealistic drawing of the iconic painting "A Bigger Splash" by famous British artist David Hockney. The film showcases Billy Pappas' incredible attention to detail and technical skill as he works on the drawing for over five years, using only a pencil and a ruler. His ambition and dedication to the project are truly inspiring, and the film does an excellent job of capturing his determination and tenacity.

Throughout the documentary, we are introduced to a wide cast of characters that are essential to Billy's artistic journey. We meet Larry Link, an art collector and advisor, who takes a keen interest in Billy's work and offers him support and advice along the way. We also meet Billy's mother, Cookie Pappas, who serves as a sounding board for Billy and offers him emotional support as he works tirelessly on his masterpiece.

However, the documentary is more than just a portrait of Billy's artistic process. It also delves into the larger art world and the role of artists and collectors within it. Through interviews with various individuals in the industry, the film explores the idea of value in art and what makes a particular piece worth millions of dollars. It also discusses the various barriers that artists face when trying to get their work recognized by the art world, and the long and arduous process of building a successful career in the industry.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the film is the way it juxtaposes the various art world personalities with Billy's own humble and modest approach to his work. While the art world can often be pretentious and exclusive, Billy's dedication and love for his craft serve as a reminder that art is first and foremost about the creative process and the passion behind it.

Another interesting aspect of the film is the way it explores the relationship between art and technology. Billy's drawing is hyperrealistic in its attention to detail and could almost be mistaken for a photograph. This raises questions about the role of technology in the art world and how it is changing the way we create and view art.

Overall, Waiting for Hockney is a thought-provoking and engaging documentary that explores the world of art and the passion that drives artists to create. Billy Pappas' dedication to his craft and his love for the creative process are truly inspiring, and the film does an excellent job of capturing the nuances of the art world and the challenges that artists face in it. It is a must-see for anyone interested in art, creativity, and the pursuit of passion.

Waiting for Hockney is a 2008 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.