Watch Meeting David Wilson

Meeting David Wilson is a 2008 documentary film revolving around David A. Wilson, an African-American queer artist, as he documents his struggles with the history of his family - particularly his inability to reconcile with the life and legacy of his white Texan grandfather. Throughout the documentary, David travels from his home in New York City to Texas, interviewing various members of his family and tracing his genealogy to understand his family's complicated past. While David's mother is supportive of his journey, he struggles to come to terms with his grandfather's history as a member of the Ku Klux Klan and his role in the segregation of Texas schools.

As he delves deeper into his heritage, David confronts the racial divides within his own family and the larger societal issues faced by black Americans. He conducts interviews with local Austin residents to better understand the city's racial dynamic and its history of segregation, while also exploring the ways in which his own identity is shaped by his family's past.

In addition to these personal revelations, David's artistic background plays an integral role in the documentary. He often incorporates his drawings and paintings into the narrative, showcasing his unique artistic perspective and creative process. His art serves as both a tool for self-expression and a means of analyzing his family's complicated history.

Throughout the documentary, David's vibrant personality shines through, making him a compelling and relatable protagonist. His journey of self-discovery is both deeply personal and universally relevant, touching upon themes of identity, race, art, and family.

Directed by Jennifer Fox and produced by the Independent Television Service (ITVS), Meeting David Wilson is a thought-provoking and nuanced exploration of one man's search for identity and understanding. It provides a powerful commentary on the ways in which history and heritage impact our present-day lives and experiences, and showcases the resilience and creativity of the human spirit in the face of adversity.