Art Is...The Permanent Revolution

Art Is... The Permanent Revolution is a deeply engaging and politically-charged documentary that delves into the world of three contemporary printmakers and their passionate commitment to a time-honored art form. The 2012 movie was directed by Manfred Kirchheimer and stars contemporary artists Sigmund Abeles, Ann Chernow, and Paul Marcus.

At its core, Art is... The Permanent Revolution is an exploration of the interplay between art and society, tracing the historical developments and societal changes that have shaped and been reflected in the world of printmaking. It sketches an intricate mapping between the chronology of printmaking as an art form and the history of political and social upheavals.

Sigmund Abeles, Ann Chernow, and Paul Marcus serve not just as the subjects of the documentary but, through their work and their words, they offer the viewer a pathway into the world of printmaking. They openly share their own personal and artistic journeys, revealing the labor-intensive craft behind their prints, and the passion and dedication that propels their work.

Sigmund Abeles, born in 1934 in New York City, is a well-known American artist whose work has delved into the societal processes that shape identity, family, and the human condition. His prints offer a commentary on the depths of human emotions and relationships, often pushing boundaries to initiate a discourse on the inherent complexities of the human saga.

Ann Chernow, born in 1936, is best known for her portrayals of women in films from Hollywood's golden age. She uses printmaking as a mode to affirm the human condition, notably focusing on the feminine perspective. Her prints echo with a haunting quality that plays up on the vintage Hollywood feel, invoking nostalgia while subtly exploring the undercurrents of societal constraints and norms.

Paul Marcus, on the other hand, brings in a touch of wit and satirical humor to his prints. He deftly examines societal trends and political scenarios, embedding in his works messages that resonate with the times delivering powerful social commentary.

As the movie unfolds, the viewers are taken into the intimate realm of these artists’ studious, where they get first-hand insights into the intricate, time-consuming processes that go into printmaking. From etching to engraving, from screen printing to lithography – the documentary provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of printmaking, capturing the entire gamut of processes and techniques.

Interspersed with the scenes from contemporary studios, the movie forays into the past, exploring the historical roots of printmaking. It draws attention to the crucial role that printmakers have played throughout history, oftentimes standing at the frontline of social and political change, using their art as a powerful tool against injustices, atrocities, war, and inequalities. We learn about Käthe Kollwitz, Robert Rauschenberg, Rembrandt, Goya, and other pivotal figures who have left an indelible mark on the landscape of printmaking.

Art Is...The Permanent Revolution highlights the power and urgency that art embodies and underscores its role as a mirror to society. The film explores the idea that art is not just a form of expression but can be a form of protest, something which can challenge the status quo and bring about change, embodying the quote attributed to Leon Trotsky and the basis for the film’s title: “Art is not a mirror held up to reality, but a hammer with which to shape it."

Director Manfred Kirchheimer ties together the elements of history, art, and socio-political commentary into a cohesive and compelling narrative, seamlessly interweaving footage of contemporary artists at work with historical content that contextualizes their art forms.

The film serves not just as a testament to the enduring craft of printmaking, but also as a tribute to the role of artists in driving societal dialogues. It makes a compelling point about the relevance of printmaking as a critical tool for social and political critique, even in the age of digital media.

In conclusion, Art Is... The Permanent Revolution is much more than an insight into the process and history of printmaking. It's an insightful journey that highlights how artists occupy a unique space in society, using their craft to hold a mirror up to the world, to challenge, to provoke, and to ultimately influence change. The movie, in essence, encapsulates the spirit of art as a remarkable force of societal revelation and revolution. It's a must-see for anyone intrigued by the interrelationships between art, history, and society.