Watch Triptych: 3 Women Making Art

Triptych: 3 Women Making Art is a 2014 documentary film directed by Peter Greenaway. The film features three female artists from different generations and cultural backgrounds: Leonora Carrington, Paula Rego, and Lila Downs. The documentary is divided into three parts, each one focusing on a different artist. The first part explores the life and artwork of Leonora Carrington, a British artist who spent most of her life in Mexico. Carrington's work is characterized by its surreal and fantastical elements, often depicting mythical creatures and dreamlike landscapes. Through interviews with Carrington's family and friends as well as footage of her working in her studio, the film provides an intimate look at the artist's creative process and the inspirations behind her work.

The second part of the documentary centers on Paula Rego, a Portuguese artist who has achieved international recognition for her figurative paintings and prints. Rego's work is notable for its dark and unsettling subject matter, often portraying women in disturbing or violent situations. Through interviews with Rego and her collaborators, the film explores the themes and motifs that recur in her art, as well as her approach to painting and drawing.

The final section of the film features Lila Downs, a Mexican-American singer and songwriter who incorporates traditional Mexican music into her work. Downs' music is a fusion of traditional and contemporary styles, and often deals with political and social issues such as Mexican identity and immigration. Through interviews with Downs and footage of her performances, the film provides a window into the world of contemporary Mexican music and the challenges faced by musicians who seek to preserve traditional styles.

Throughout the documentary, Greenaway weaves together interviews, archival footage, and footage of the artists at work to create a portrait of three remarkable women who have made significant contributions to the world of art. The film also touches on broader themes such as the relationship between art and politics, the role of women in creative fields, and the challenges faced by artists working in different cultural contexts.

One of the strengths of Triptych: 3 Women Making Art is its focus on the individual experiences of each artist, rather than attempting to draw broader conclusions or make sweeping generalizations about the art world as a whole. The film allows the artists to speak for themselves, giving viewers a unique insight into their personalities, creative processes, and motivations.

Another notable aspect of the documentary is its use of visual and aural elements to enhance the viewer's experience. Greenaway employs a variety of techniques such as split screens, overlapping images, and dynamic soundscapes to create a sensory-rich portrait of each artist. This approach not only makes the film visually engaging, but also reflects the artists' own experiments with different mediums and forms.

Overall, Triptych: 3 Women Making Art is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary that provides a deep dive into the lives and works of three remarkable artists. Whether you are a fan of Leonora Carrington or Paula Rego, or simply interested in the art world more broadly, this film offers a rich and rewarding viewing experience.

Triptych: 3 Women Making Art is a 2010 documentary with a runtime of 35 minutes.