Ep 3. Legacy

Art in the Twenty-First Century is a PBS television series that explores contemporary art and artists. In season 7, episode 3 entitled "Legacy," the series focuses on artists whose work reflects the impact of their personal histories and cultural legacies.

The episode highlights the works of three artists: Tania Bruguera, Abraham Cruzvillegas, and Wolfgang Laib. Through interviews with the artists and footage of their work, viewers gain insight into how each artist's heritage has informed and influenced their art.

Cuban artist Tania Bruguera's work addresses political and social issues, often using participatory installations to engage audiences in a dialogue about these topics. In "Legacy," viewers see her working on an installation that uses a heat-sensitive floor to represent the divide between people living in the United States and those in Cuba. Bruguera's personal experiences growing up in Cuba and the United States fuel her desire to create this kind of work and connect people across borders.

Mexican artist Abraham Cruzvillegas's work explores the concept of "autoconstrucción," the practice of building one's own home from found and recycled materials. This approach to architecture and design is deeply rooted in Cruzvillegas's upbringing in a working-class neighborhood in Mexico City. Through his installations and sculptures, Cruzvillegas creates new forms and meanings from discarded objects, paying homage to the resourcefulness and creativity of his cultural heritage.

German artist Wolfgang Laib is known for his contemplative, minimalist installations that utilize natural materials such as beeswax, pollen, and rice. Laib's meditative practice is deeply influenced by his upbringing in a family of doctors who valued the medicinal properties of natural substances. Through his art, Laib connects with nature and spirituality, reminding viewers of the importance of slowing down and experiencing the natural world.

Throughout the episode, viewers see how each artist's work is a reflection of their personal history and cultural legacy. By exploring the themes of identity, memory, and tradition, "Legacy" offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process of contemporary artists and the diverse ways in which they draw upon their past to create something new.