Must-Watch Documentaries About the Arts on Netflix
If you’re looking to dive into the captivating world of creativity, Netflix has a treasure trove of documentaries that celebrate the arts in all their forms. Whether you’re an art lover, a music fanatic, or just curious about the creative process, these films offer a fascinating peek behind the scenes.
Exit Through the Gift Shop
This documentary, directed by the elusive street artist Banksy, starts as an investigation into street art but quickly transforms into a wild ride through the underground art world. Viewers love the unexpected twists and the way it blurs the line between reality and performance. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys edgy, thought-provoking stories and wants to challenge their ideas about art.
Cutie and the Boxer
A heartfelt look at the marriage and artistic careers of two Japanese artists living in New York City, Ushio Shinohara and Noriko Shinohara. This film captures the raw passion, struggles, and sacrifices behind creative partnership. Fans of intimate, character-driven stories and those interested in visual arts and the complexities of love will find this documentary deeply moving.
20 Feet from Stardom
This Oscar-winning documentary shines a light on the backup singers behind some of the biggest music legends. It’s a powerful celebration of unsung talent and the pursuit of dreams in the music industry. If you love music history and want to hear amazing voices you might not know, this one’s a must-watch.
The Great Contemporary Art Bubble
Exploring the booming market of contemporary art, this documentary dives into how artists, collectors, and dealers influence the value of art. It’s a fascinating look at the economics behind creativity, making it ideal for viewers curious about the art world beyond galleries and museums.
Abstract: The Art of Design
This series profiles some of the world’s most innovative designers, from graphic artists to architects. Each episode offers insight into their creative process and the impact of design on everyday life. It’s binge-worthy for anyone who appreciates creativity in all its forms and wants to understand what goes into shaping the world around us.
Faces Places
A warm and whimsical documentary that follows filmmaker Agnès Varda and artist JR as they travel across rural France creating large-scale portraits with locals. It’s a beautiful exploration of art, memory, and community. Perfect for viewers who enjoy feel-good stories and the human side of art-making.
Finding Vivian Maier
This film uncovers the mysterious life of Vivian Maier, a nanny who secretly took over 100,000 photographs that were discovered after her death. The documentary is a gripping journey into the life of a hidden genius. Ideal for photography buffs and anyone fascinated by stories of overlooked talent.
Marina Abramović: The Artist Is Present
Follow performance artist Marina Abramović as she prepares for a major retrospective at the Museum of Modern Art. The documentary offers a rare glimpse into the physical and emotional demands of performance art. It’s a compelling watch for those interested in contemporary art and endurance-based creativity.
