Watch Tierney Gearon: The Mother Project

Tierney Gearon: The Mother Project is a documentary film that explores the life and art of Tierney Gearon, a renowned American photographer. The film is directed by Jack Youngelson and was released in 2006. Throughout the documentary, viewers are given a glimpse into the world of Gearon's art, particularly her controversial photographs of her own children. Gearon uses her art to explore the complexities of motherhood and the relationship between mother and child. This film delves into the inspiration behind Gearon's work, her creative process, and the emotional toll that creating such personal art has on her and her family.

The Mother Project is filmed in a fly-on-the-wall style, with candid shots of Gearon interacting with her children and working on various photography projects. Viewers also get a behind-the-scenes look at Gearon's preparation for her first major exhibition, which was met with both acclaim and controversy due to the inclusion of her personal family photos.

The documentary also delves into Gearon's personal life, including her struggles with bipolar disorder and past trauma, both of which have shaped her artwork. Through interviews with Gearon's family and friends, we learn about her childhood, her marriage to her husband, and her experiences with motherhood. The film portrays Gearon's life as a balancing act between her art, her family, and her mental health.

One of the most poignant moments in the film is the exploration of how Gearon's motherhood influences her art. Gearon is a single mother of two children, and it is clear that her love for them is the driving force behind much of her work. We see how Gearon uses her art to capture the raw emotions of motherhood, such as joy, frustration, and even fear.

The film also touches on the controversy surrounding Gearon's work, particularly her photographs of her children in various states of undress. Gearon received criticism from some who saw her work as exploitative, while others praised her for pushing artistic boundaries and challenging societal norms. The documentary does not take a clear position on this issue but instead presents different perspectives and allows viewers to form their own opinions.

Despite the controversial nature of her work, Gearon remains an artist in constant pursuit of truth and honesty. Her art serves as a way to express her emotions and experiences as well as to connect with others. The Mother Project is a testament to the power of art to heal, transform, and connect.

In conclusion, Tierney Gearon: The Mother Project is a fascinating documentary that provides insight into the life and art of one of the most influential photographers of our time. Gearon's work challenges societal norms and explores the complexities of motherhood, all while remaining deeply personal and emotional. This film is a must-see for anyone interested in photography, motherhood, or art that pushes boundaries.

Tierney Gearon: The Mother Project is a 2007 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.