Nothing Changes: Art for Hank's Sake

Nothing Changes: Art for Hank's Sake is a captivating 2018 documentary that unravels the enigmatic life of octogenarian artist, Hank Virgona. The film stars Andy French, Chip Kidd, and Matt Lass who intricately weave together Hank's story, serving as poignant narrators to his tale of passion, determination, and creativity.

Directed by Matthew Kaplowitz, the film presents a richly detailed account of Hank Virgona, an artist who has ardently pursued his craft for the better part of his life. Hank, now in his late 80s, journeys from his Long Island home to his Manhattan studio six days a week inconspicuously sustaining a commitment that has spanned several decades.

Like a reliable clock, Hank keeps a strict regimen, waking at 4 AM and taking an hour-long commute into Manhattan, rain or shine to continue his work at Union Square studio. His dedication and passion towards his art are unyielding and undeniable. It's a passion that can only be described as a deep-rooted act of love, a profound connection to an art form that has centrally marked his very existence. He rides the subway, steadily maneuvering through the ebbs and flows of the city, splendidly capturing the rhythm of New York; this is his life—a constant pursuit of art in the bowels of the bustling metropolis.

Throughout the film, we see Hank's style, a robust application of cross-hatching, stippling, and an exciting venture into mixed media works. The documentary features Hank’s pieces, depicting everyday life; subways, commuters, city streets blending both portraiture and urban landscape. His artistic technique is exceptional, employing characteristically intricate details to produce an impressive catalog of artwork that manages to capture the lived experiences of everyday people in a dynamic city.

As the film progresses, a medley of vignettes unveils a detailed backstory to each piece of Hank's art, reflecting his view of the world, his personal experiences, and his interactions infused with a unique aesthetic charm. The brilliant portrayal of these moments elucidates the running thread within Hank's art, essentially documenting the evolving zeitgeist of New York City over the decades.

French, Kidd, and Lass’s moving narrative performances encapsulate the respect and admiration they harbor for Hank, echoing the profound influence he has had on their lives. Their stories entwine with his, acknowledging the underlying essence of Hank's art – continuity, perseverance, and an unparalleled connection to the city around him.

Indeed, Nothing Changes: Art for Hank's Sake is an insightful look into Hank's journey as an artist, highlighting the unyielding nature of his trade. It delves into the challenges he faced in his pursuit of a livelihood that's often piloted by market trends and commercial viability rather than intrinsic artistic value. Yet, Hank's journey unfurls a story of resistance, embodying his heartfelt dedication to his craft, an unwavering they showcase in the face of external pressures.

With the director's keen storytelling, viewers are drawn into Hank's world—a world that feels intangible and mundane simultaneously, but one that resonates with authenticity and warmth. The narrative, accompanied by a captivating score, contributes to an immersive cinematic experience, allowing audiences to witness Hank’s often-reclusive creative process in an intimate way.

In the end, Nothing Changes: Art for Hank's Sake is poignant in its simplicity but profound in its storytelling. It challenges the viewer to perceive the ordinary as extraordinary through the lens of a man who sees the world unlike any other. Hank's story, brought to life by French, Kidd, and Lass, teaches us that it is the commitment to one's passion that brings about true fulfillment, a sentiment profoundly depicted in the life of an artist relentless in his pursuit of his craft.

A must-see for art enthusiasts, this film serves as an exploration of the resilience of human spirit and creativity expressed so beautifully through the medium of visual art. The story of Hank Virgona would inspire anyone who dare to live their dreams. His story, as immortalized in this documentary, serves as a testament to art’s incredible power to transcend and connect, promising us that art, indeed, changes everything.