Past Events
Film Group
Series Ten: With their supposed idiosyncratic personalities, yet paradoxically broad-based fandom, artists (across all disciplines) have been frequent subjects of the popular cinema since its early days. For example, Vincent Van Gogh has had numerous films produced about his life, continuing even in recent years. Because they seem above the ordinary, artists fascinate us: their specialness offers a glimpse of a more brilliant existence for ourselves. Such a glimpse, however, can be a trap not only for us, whose dreams of a more intense life are easily exploited by a consumerist society eager to fulfill them, but especially for the artists themselves, whose humanity as well as their artistic contribution can be cheapened.
Jan. 28 – Frida (2003) directed by Julie Taymor presents the life of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. The film is problematized not only by Kahlo’s continuing cult appeal but also by its production within Harvey Weinstein’s Miramax studio. Popular culture’s growing fascination with Kahlo had led to pop figures such as Madonna eager to exploit her legacy. Weinstein’s involvement raises issues of sexual exploitation, particularly given the film’s female director and star, but also there is the context of Miramax’s business plan: somewhat risqué topics and treatments to enthrall a more upscale audience seeking greater sophistication. Yet, Kahlo’s life and art deserve to be better known and understood and Taymor’s abilities in creating vivid, baroque images deserve our attention.
Poetic Odyssey
All who are interested in writing, reading or listening to poetry are welcome.
Contacts: Philip Resnick (Professor Emeritus, Political Science) and George McWhirter (Professor Emeritus, Creative Writing).
Photo Group
Contacts: Derek Applegarth (derek.jenny@shaw.ca) and Mike Whitfield.
Friday, 17 January 2020 - 4:00pm to 5:30pm