Watch State of the Art

State of the Art is a captivating and thought-provoking documentary film released in 2019, featuring the talented artist Justin Favela. This arresting movie explores the complex and intersectional themes of representation, identity, and culture in contemporary art. Directed by Marlena Doktorczyk-Donohue, State of the Art takes viewers on a remarkable journey into the world of visual artist Justin Favela. Favela is renowned for his innovative and transformative art installations that draw inspiration from his Mexican and Guatemalan heritage, pop culture, and everyday objects. The film delves deep into Favela's creative process, offering a rare glimpse into the mind of an artist who challenges the conventional notions of what art can be.

The documentary begins with Favela's childhood memories, which heavily influence his artistic vision and creative output. Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, Favela reflects on his formative experiences in a city often associated with spectacle and excess. Against this backdrop, Favela's work emerges as a vibrant and poignant critique of consumerism and cultural appropriation.

The film then follows Favela as he embarks on various art installations, both solo and collaborative, that have gained him recognition and acclaim in the contemporary art world. From colorful piñatas to large-scale installations made from everyday items like party streamers, tissue paper, and cardboard, Favela blends traditional Latin American craft with a modern twist, challenging the viewers' preconceived notions about the value and perception of art.

As State of the Art progresses, it becomes evident that Favela's work extends beyond purely aesthetic purposes. His art serves as a vehicle for challenging stereotypes, reclaiming cultural identity, and fostering conversations around representation. Through his art installations, Favela explores the political and social implications of being a Mexican-American artist in an era marked by cultural hybridity and heightened political tensions.

The documentary further highlights Favela's collaboration with other artists and the impact of their joint projects. Through these collaborations, Favela emphasizes the communal aspects of art-making and the power of collaboration as a means of artistic expression and cultural exchange. It showcases how Favela's work serves as a bridge between different communities, forging connections and opening doors for dialogue.

State of the Art also sheds light on Favela's innovative use of social media and technological platforms to reach a wider audience and challenge traditional art spaces. From Instagram to YouTube, Favela demonstrates the democratizing power of online platforms in breaking down barriers and making art more accessible. Through his viral art content, Favela explores the complex dynamics between art, technology, and audience engagement.

Beyond Favela's individual journey, State of the Art engages with broader questions and discussions surrounding the contemporary art world. The documentary interrogates notions of inclusivity, representation, and access within the art community, inviting viewers to contemplate the role and responsibility of artists in shaping cultural narratives. By showcasing the vibrant and multifaceted art scene in Las Vegas, the film challenges the dominant notion that contemporary art is solely centered in cosmopolitan cities like New York or Los Angeles.

State of the Art is a captivating and visually stunning documentary that captures the essence of Justin Favela's innovative and thought-provoking art. Through Favela's journey, the film addresses pressing questions about cultural appropriation, identity, and the power of art to incite change. As viewers explore the colorful world of Favela's installations, they are encouraged to reflect on their own place within the context of contemporary art and its ability to reshape societal norms.

State of the Art is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 55 minutes.