Watch The Big Picture - The OCS Story

The Big Picture - The OCS Story is a 2019 documentary film that revolves around the history and achievements of the Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD). This educational institution is considered one of the most prestigious art and design schools in Canada, and the documentary explores the reasons behind its success, the challenges it faced, and the impact it had on the art and design world.

The movie starts by introducing the audience to OCAD's founder, George Reid, and his vision to establish a school that focused on the practical application of art and design. The documentary then delves into the struggles that the school faced during its early years, including financial difficulties and criticisms from traditionalists who believed that art should be solely about aesthetics rather than function.

As the documentary progresses, the focus shifts to some of the key figures who played a significant role in shaping OCAD's future. One of them was Roy Ascott, who transformed the school's approach to art and design by introducing innovative concepts like cybernetics and telematics. Another was Vera Frenkel, who was responsible for introducing interdisciplinary studies at OCAD and creating a platform for students to explore the intersectionality of different art forms.

The Big Picture - The OCS Story also portrays the impact that OCAD had on the Canadian art and design industry. The documentary showcases some of the notable alumni who graduated from the institution, including renowned artists like Michael Snow and Margaret Atwood, as well as designers like Bruce Mau and Karim Rashid. The film highlights how OCAD's approach to education inspired these artists and designers to think outside the box and create thought-provoking works that went beyond aesthetics.

Apart from the success stories, the documentary also touches on the challenges that OCAD faced. The film explores how the school struggled to keep up with the changing trends in art and design and how it had to adapt to new technologies like digital art and 3D printing. The documentary also highlights the budget cuts that OCAD faced in the 1990s and how this forced the institution to look for alternative sources of funding.

Overall, The Big Picture - The OCS Story is a fascinating documentary that provides insights into the history and achievements of one of Canada's most influential educational institutions. The film not only celebrates the successes of OCAD but also highlights the challenges that the school had to overcome to maintain its position as a leader in art and design education. The Big Picture - The OCS Story is a must-watch for anyone interested in the Canadian art scene, and it provides valuable lessons on the importance of innovation and adaptability in the world of art and design.