More Art Upstairs

More Art Upstairs delves into the increasingly popular world of art festivals and competitions, specifically focusing on the ArtPrize in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Featuring amateurs, unknowns, and professional artists from around the world, the film presents an engaging intersection of creation, discussion, and intense competition, all revolving around the quest to win public votes and art-world respect.

The documentary opens into the inviting streets of Grand Rapids during ArtPrize, a unique art competition described as a mix of "American Idol" and a museum. Unlike most art events, ArtPrize is an open to all, un-juried competition where a cash prize of $200,000 is awarded to the artwork that receives the most public votes. More than 400,000 attendees cast more than 380,000 votes throughout the two weeks of ArtPrize. This democratic approach to judging breaks the usual barriers between the art world and the public, shaking the traditional values and criteria to judge art.

Jody Hassett Sanchez, a former journalist transitioning into film, helms the project. More Art Upstairs is her directorial debut, and the film cleverly reflects her journalist eye for detail and skill in telling a balanced story. Showing that she more fully understands the creative process and the prevailing conflicts in the art world, her treatment of the subject matter is sensitive and respectful.

The film spotlights a handful of diverse artists as they prepare for and participate in ArtPrize. This diverse mix of artists range from a former Hasbro toy designer to a visual artist who doubles as a stand-up comedian. Each artist profiled is driven by their specific creative impulses and distilled inspirations, allowing for a broader look at the range of artistic expression, aspirations, and anxieties. Their backstories, process, and experience during the competition are highlighted, bringing forth human elements in the often-impersonal art world.

More Art Upstairs also delves into the complexities of an event like ArtPrize. Some detractors argue that the model's reliance on public opinion could marginalize more challenging or less accessible works of art. Others, however, appreciate the inclusivity of the event, as it encourages more people to engage with art on various levels. The film navigates through these conflicting opinions, offering no clear answer but prompting thought and discussion.

Sanchez masterfully juxtaposes the populist celebration of creativity with art-world elitism. She explores how the public's taste contrasts and overlaps with that of the 'art cognoscenti', who often struggle to accept the idea of art being democratically appreciated and awarded. The dichotomy between professional critics and public opinion and the tension it creates in the art community forms a recurrent theme throughout the documentary.

The film unveils the suspense, drama, and excitement of the ArtPrize competition, with each artist passionately pitching their vision to the interested public. As the competition progresses, viewers witness the artists grappling with self-doubt, rejoicing in public recognition and negotiating the gray area between commercial success and pure artistic expression.

Moreover, More Art Upstairs also highlights the city of Grand Rapids itself. The viewer gets a sense of how the fortunes of the city have changed over time and how the ArtPrize event is woven into the city's fabric, creating a cultural awakening and contributing to urban renewal.

On a larger scale, this documentary scrutinizes the very concept of art – what it is, who it is for, and how it should be evaluated. The film reflects on the conventional art world's exclusivity and creates a conversation about making art more accessible and understandable to the masses.

In closing, More Art Upstairs is a documentary that investigates the creative landscape of our times, with a specific look at the changing dynamics between mainstream audiences and the so-called 'art world'. Through the exploration of ArtPrize — a democratic, dynamic, and somewhat controversial event — it opens a well-needed discussion about widening the appreciation of art and breaking down barriers of elitism within the craft. Both entertaining and thought-provoking, it appeals to art enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.