Art21 - Art in the 21st Century Season 7 Episode 2 Secrets

"Secrets" is the second episode from season 7 of Art21's award-winning documentary series "Art in the 21st Century." In this episode, viewers are introduced to several contemporary artists from different parts of the world, exploring their creative process and the hidden secrets that inspire their innovative artworks.

The episode opens with the story of Trevor Paglen, an American artist whose work focuses on uncovering the hidden infrastructures of power and surveillance in the digital age. Through his photographs and installations, Paglen exposes the ways in which governments and corporations use technology to control and monitor our lives. Viewers get a rare glimpse into his studio, where he works on creating invisible sculptures that use the latest in stealth technology to remain undetected by surveillance cameras.

Next, viewers are introduced to the work of artist and writer Tania Bruguera from Cuba, currently based in New York. Bruguera's art is deeply political, often addressing issues of power and social justice. She is known for her provocative performance pieces that challenge the status quo and encourage public engagement. In "Secrets," viewers see her collaborate with a group of immigrants in the US who share their personal stories of struggle and identity through poetry and dance. Bruguera's work challenges the notion of borders and questions who gets to be a citizen in today's world.

The episode then introduces the work of German artist Wolfgang Laib, whose art is rooted in the concept of nature and its spiritual qualities. Laib spends most of his time in a remote village in the south of Germany, where he has created a sanctuary for his art, including sculptures, installations and performances. He works primarily with natural materials, such as pollen, beeswax and rice, and creates site-specific installations that invite viewers to contemplate and meditate on the beauty and fragility of life.

The final artist in "Secrets" is American painter and printmaker Abraham Cruzvillegas, whose art is deeply personal and autobiographical. Born and raised in Mexico City, Cruzvillegas creates artworks that reflect his cultural identity and the complex history of his country. He is known for his assemblages and sculptures made from found objects and materials, such as concrete, wood and cardboard. In this episode, viewers see Cruzvillegas in his studio working on a new series of drawings based on his childhood memories and the landscapes of Mexico.

Overall, "Secrets" is a captivating and thought-provoking episode that showcases the diversity and complexity of contemporary art. Through the stories of four very different artists, viewers are introduced to the secrets and hidden truths that inspire their art and inform their lives. With stunning visuals and insightful commentary, this episode is a must-see for anyone interested in the power of art to reveal the mysteries of the human experience."