A brilliant look at renowned Japanese contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama, this documentary feature from Heather Lenz explores Kusama’s career, tracing her history through the 50s and 60s and the daring work that expressed the political and social movements of the time. The film follows Kusama, from her early life in Japan to her life as an artist in New York where her avante-garde creations inspire a lifetime of international recognition. Although Kusama faced sexism and racism throughout her career, she did not let the negativity dissuade her from championing her voice and becoming a lasting figurehead in the art world.
The film also includes footage of an 88-year old Kusama as she creates new work to reflect the social media age, continuing to inspire and influence the world through expression. Lenz expertly weaves together Kusama’s past and present to tell the story of a true artist.
Director Biography
Heather Lenz earned her MFA in Cinema Arts from USC, and is focused on producing documentary and biographical films, as illustrated in her portrait of artist Yayoi Kusama. Along with her own films, she has worked on a range of projects in both television and film.
Press
"Heather Lenz's documentary is an inspiring portrait of the legendary Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, who battled sexism, racism, and mental illness to achieve her present day success." - Screen Anarchy
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