FREE admission

Jack Smith (1932–1989) profoundly changed experimental film and theater forever, inspiring artists as diverse as Robert Wilson, John Waters, Cindy Sherman, and Andy Warhol, to name only a few. His uncompromising work blended distorted orientalism, burlesque, fluid sexuality, social critique and deadpan satire into an orgy of radical ecstasy. This series presents brand-new restorations of Smith’s films, all presented on glorious 16mm film. We also screen two documentaries which provide context for a deeper understanding of Smith’s aesthetic and influence.

This excellent documentary on Smith’s work combines excerpts of his films and photographs with rare audio recordings, acting appearances, and other relics from his archives.  The film also includes commentary from an array of art luminaries, critics and Smith's friends and enemies, including writer Ronald Tavel, film critic Andrew Sarris, Warhol superstar Mario Montez, and artist Nayland Blake. (2006, 94 min, digital)

 

Image copyright Jack Smith and Courtesy Jack Smith Archive and Gladstone Gallery, New York and Brussels.