Watch More Art Upstairs

More Art Upstairs is a documentary film directed by Jody Lee Lipes, which explores the phenomenon of the annual bustling, competitive exhibition of contemporary art at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. The film delves into the mystery of why so many amateur artists from different walks of life are willing to spend their time, energy, and money to showcase their work in an event that could easily leave them demoralized and unrecognized. The documentary engages viewers into a captivating journey that is part-deep dive into the world of art, part-cultural reflection, and part-inspiration.

The film begins by introducing the university's annual exhibition, which is open to any artist who wishes to display their work. Each artist can submit one piece of art and the exhibition is juried, meaning that the works are judged by judges who decide which ones will be displayed. The pieces that are selected are then exhibited in the campus museum.

The documentary takes viewers behind the scenes of the exhibition, interviewing several of the artists and finding out what motivates them to participate. The artists come from all walks of life and include everyone from college students to retirees. The film captures their passion and dedication to their work, as they describe what their process is like and what inspires them. We learn about the challenges they face in pursuing their passion, including lack of funding, social stigma, and self-doubt.

The documentary also showcases the various kinds of art that are on display, ranging from photography and painting to sculpture and mixed media. It shows how the judges select which pieces to feature, and viewers get an inside look at the curatorial process. In addition to the artists, the film features interviews with members of the university administration, who help to run the exhibition, and experts in the field, who provide context for the contemporary art world.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is how it delves into the psychology of the artists and how their art reflects their identities, emotions, and worldviews. The documentary shows how the artists use their work to express their struggles, hopes, and fears, as well as how their art often serves as a form of therapy or coping mechanism. The film also looks at how the exhibition functions as a community-building event, bringing together artists from different backgrounds and fostering a sense of camaraderie.

Overall, More Art Upstairs is a thought-provoking and engaging documentary that offers a fascinating look into the world of contemporary art. It highlights the passion, dedication, and talent of amateur artists, and shows how their work can be both deeply personal and universally resonant. It also raises important questions about the role of art in society and the challenges that artists face in pursuing their passions.

More Art Upstairs is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 17 minutes.