Hairy Who and The Chicago Imagists

Hairy Who and The Chicago Imagists is a riveting 2014 documentary film that spotlights a significant yet underrepresented chapter in the history of American art. This film interweaves a remarkable mix of rare archival footage, interviews, and contemporary art inspired by the Imagists, and documents the outlandish and pioneering arts movement that dominated Chicago in the 1960s and 70s.

The film’s title, "Hairy Who and The Chicago Imagists," borrows from the name of an eccentric, collective art group, the 'Hairy Who,' which comprised six key members. This group and others that followed created a dominant and distinctive art scene in Chicago during that period. They were involved directly or indirectly in giving rise to the art form acknowledged as "Chicago Imagism."

The director Leslie Buchbinder effectively contextualizes the group's significant influence in shaping the aesthetics and philosophy of the entire Chicago Imagist movement. Brilliantly showcasing how these artists rebelled against the norm, the film provides insight into their initiative to break away from the established art forms of New York and Los Angeles during the 1960s. Their distinct brand of art was more personal, humorous, and human-centered, it aimed to draw inspiration from the everyday, common man's life while highlighting the unique eccentricities of humanity.

A significant character that the film focuses on is Roger Brown, a renowned Visual artist known for his distinctive painting style that combined aspects of folk, pop, and surrealists art, making him a leading figure in the Chicago Imagist art movement. Brown's contribution to the art scene during that time is aptly brought out in the film through interviews and discussions about his artwork.

Along with Brown, The film showcases a wide array of artists who were either part of this Imagist movement or were significantly influenced by it. This includes remarkable personalities like Ed Paschke, known for his detailed and vibrant artworks; Christina Ramberg, celebrated for her comic strip inspired art style; and Karl Wirsum, appreciated for his whimsical and impactful art designs.

Another noteworthy presence in Hairy Who and The Chicago Imagists is Cheryl Lynn Bruce, a renowned theater actress, and director. Bruce, who has been a vital component of the Chicago theater scene, provides the narration for this documentary. Her compelling voice carries the narrative forward, lending another layer of depth to the rich story presented in the documentary.

The film also features a cameo by the internationally famous artist Jeff Koons. His appearance testifies to the significant influence that the Chicago Imagist movement had on artists globally, crossing borders and oceans.

Visually, Hairy Who and The Chicago Imagists is a treat for the eyes. It combines a variety of art forms, reflecting the eclectic styles of the Imagist artists. The film displays a wealth of their vibrant, quirky, and often bizarre imagination, interwoven with photos and archive footage, offering a nuanced perspective into the life and times of these artists.

Narratively, this docu-film presents a comprehensive picture of this distinctive art movement. It utilizes interviews of leading art critics, collectors, and contemporary artists as well as some surviving members of the Hairy Who collective. These interactions provide firsthand insights into the philosophy and minds that framed the Art of the Imagists. The viewers are also introduced to Art school teacher Ray Yoshida, whose mentorship played a crucial role in the formation and development of Imagist art.

The documentary serves as a remarkable exploration and celebration of the Imagist agenda to depict the world in all its odd, grotesque, and urbanly mundane spirit. It is a vital and fascinating watch for audience members intrigued by arts and culture, providing a thoughtful understanding of the offbeat world of Imagist art. Hairy Who and The Chicago Imagists is more than a retelling of an art history movement—it is a tribute to a group of artists who dared to defy the norms, cementing their legacy and influence in the global art world.