Ep 4. Fiction

Art in the Twenty-First Century is a PBS series that offers an insightful glimpse into the minds and artistic processes of contemporary artists. Season 7, Episode 4 titled "Fiction" examines the role of storytelling in contemporary art.

The episode features three artists from different parts of the world, all of whom use narrative techniques in their work. The first artist, Lynn Hershman Leeson, is an American feminist artist who works in various media, including photography, film, and interactive installations. She explores the intersection of technology, identity, and the body in her work and often creates alter egos to explore different aspects of her identity.

The second artist, Natalia Almada, is a Mexican-American filmmaker and photographer who creates powerful and immersive films that blend fiction and documentary elements. Her work explores themes of culture, history, and memory, and she often uses personal narratives to reveal larger societal issues.

The third artist, Brian Jungen, is a Canadian artist of Indigenous descent who creates sculptures and installations using everyday objects such as sports equipment and consumer goods. He explores the intersections of Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultures and questions the authenticity and mythology of cultural identity.

Throughout the episode, the artists discuss their artistic processes and the ways in which they use storytelling to engage audiences and convey meaning. They explore the power of narrative to address issues such as identity, memory, and history, and to reveal the complexities of the human condition.

The episode also features interviews with curators and critics who examine the relevance and significance of narrative in contemporary art. They discuss the ways in which artists use storytelling to challenge dominant narratives and to create new ways of understanding ourselves and the world around us.

Overall, "Fiction" offers a fascinating exploration of the role of storytelling in contemporary art. Through the work of three diverse artists, the episode reveals the unique power of narrative to reveal hidden truths, challenge dominant narratives, and engage audiences in meaningful ways.