Ep 16. Tyrus

Tyrus is an American Masters episode that takes a close look at the life and career of the artist Tyrus Wong. Born in China in 1910, Wong immigrated to the United States when he was only nine years old. Despite facing discrimination and poverty, Wong showed a talent for art at an early age and went on to become one of the most influential Asian American artists of the 20th century.

The episode begins by exploring Wong's childhood and early career, which was marked by both hardship and resilience. Growing up in California during the Great Depression, Wong worked menial jobs to support his family while also pursuing his passion for art. He eventually landed a job at Disney Studios, where he worked on the classic animated film Bambi. Although Wong did not receive the credit he deserved for his contributions to the film, his work on Bambi and other Disney projects allowed him to hone his craft and establish himself as a skilled artist.

Despite enjoying success at Disney, Wong felt constrained by the limits of commercial animation and longed to pursue a more personal style of art. In the 1950s, he left the studio and began working on his own projects, experimenting with techniques like calligraphy and sumi-e painting. Wong's unique approach to art drew from his Chinese heritage and his experiences growing up in America, resulting in works that blended traditional Eastern motifs with modern Western sensibilities.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to a rich tapestry of Wong's art, including his intricate pen-and-ink drawings, vibrant watercolors, and delicate ceramics. The documentary also features candid interviews with Wong's family members, friends, and fellow artists, who speak to his talent, innovation, and indomitable spirit.

One particularly fascinating aspect of the episode is the way it highlights Wong's influence on American popular culture. Although his work was often overlooked or dismissed during his lifetime, Wong's aesthetic sensibility had a profound impact on a wide range of art forms, from Hollywood cinema and Disney animation to fashion design and contemporary art. In recent years, Wong's legacy has been celebrated through exhibits at major museums and cultural institutions, cementing his place as a pioneering figure in Asian American art.

Ultimately, Tyrus is a testament to the power of art to transcend cultural and personal boundaries, and a celebration of the life and work of a remarkable artist who persevered in the face of adversity. Through stunning visuals and insightful interviews, the episode provides a deeply moving portrait of one of America's most unsung creative talents.