The True Story of Tamara de Lempicka & the Art of Survival
FILM INFO
- Original title: The True Story of Tamara de Lempicka & the Art of Survival
- Director: Julie Rubio
- Length: 96 min
- Country: USA
- Year: 2024
SCREENINGS AND TICKETS
“Tamara de Lempicka & the Art of Survival" is a visually stunning feature documentary that traces the life and survival of the renowned painter through her powerful artwork. Through groundbreaking, never-before-seen 8mm home movies and newly-discovered birth and baptism certificates, the film reveals her true name, heritage, and identity for the first time, changing art history. The film covers her rise to international stardom in 1920s Paris, her move to the United States to flee fascism in 1940, and her revival in the current art market. This remarkable refugee reinvented herself multiple times through two wars, embodying talent, resilience, passion, and a relentless pursuit of artistic freedom despite the horrors she lived through. This bisexual, Jewish artist had the will to be great and to be seen in a world that did not always want to see her.
One of Lempicka’s notable collectors, Barbra Streisand, provides exclusive access to images of her private collection, while Madonna pays tribute by featuring Lempicka's imagery in her videos and latest world concert tour. Anjelica Huston lends her narration, sharing personal stories. The film showcases Lempicka’s enduring popularity, highlighted by one of her paintings recently selling at auction for over $21.1 million, marking the third-highest price ever paid for a work by a modern female artist.
Throughout the film, we delve deeper into insights from our comprehensive interviews, uncovering profound perspectives from Tamara de Lempicka's family, distinguished art historians, collectors, and other notable figures. Broadway star Eden Espinosa, recently honored with a Tony Award nomination for her portrayal of Tamara de Lempicka in 'Lempicka’ The Musical, along with the show's creators, offers compelling viewpoints. Additionally, curators of the 2024 retrospective at the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco enrich the audience's exploration.
The documentary provides a deep and illuminating look into the life and legacy of Tamara de Lempicka, who broke down barriers and opened doors for female artists. She conveyed her struggle, turmoil, and truth onto the canvas, where her humanity stares back at you, exposing her secrets for all to witness. A brilliant, brave artist, the hero of her own story, she left behind a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate.
You know her paintings; now you will know her name.
The screenings will be introduced by the art lover Kristel Martis.
