We’ve all wasted time aimlessly scrolling through Netflix and trying to decide what to watch. Before you know it, 40 minutes have passed and you’re thinking of just re-watching an episode of The X-Files. So to quell your Netflix indecisiveness, we’ve gathered some of the best art documentaries streaming on Netflix. Not only will you actually learn things from all of these insightful documentaries, you also won’t feel guilty about sitting on your couch and consuming these cerebral films. So go ahead and get your highbrow Netflix game on.
The Art of the Steal (2009)
Filled with mystery, intrigue and scandal, this documentary gives the viewer an inside look at the business of art. In the 20th century, Albert Barnes collected the world's most impressive collection of post-impressionist art. An ardent opposer of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the elite world of art institutions, Barnes housed his collection in his home in Philadelphia and specifically stated in his will that his collection was to never be sold or moved from his house. After his death, the Philadelphia Museum of Art attempted to steal this invaluable collection from the home Matisse called "the only sane place to see art in America."
The Rape Of Europa (2007)
Remember Monuments Men? That incredibly boring movie that George Clooney directed, produced and starred in? Well, Rape of Europa tells the same story of Nazi art pillaging but in a way that is much more engaging and informative.
Just Like Being There (2012)
This documentary traces the history of the vintage gig poster genre and explains how it became a cultural mainstay among music lovers.
Waste Land (2010)
A 2011 Oscar nominee for Best Documentary, Waste Land follows the story of artist Vik Muniz as he works with Brazilian garbage pickers to create art out of items found in the world's largest landfill. A winner of over 50 film awards, the documentary is an inspiring story about the transformative power of art and collaboration.
Marina Abramovic: The Artist Is Present (2012)
One of the most influential performance artists living today, Marina Abramaovic's documentary focuses on her life and her retrospective "The Artist Is Present" at the Museum of Modern Art. The documentary breaks down the world of performance art in a way that is accessible and relatable.
Cutie and the Boxer (2013)
A 2014 Oscar nominee for Best Documentary, Cutie and the Boxer tells the story of the 40-year marriage of Japanese "boxing" painter Ushio Shinohara and his wife, Noriko. The film is expertly made, filled with ruminations on love, sacrifice and difficulties that plague both a creative life and a marriage.
Bill Cunningham New York (2010)
It's really hard not to fall in love with Bill Cunningham in this documentary. Cunningham has photographed high society and street fashion for decades. This documentary paints a charming and sweet portrait of one the most influential fashion photographers of all time.
Design Is One: Lella & Massimo Vignelli (2012)
This documentary follows husband and wife Massimo and Lella Vignelli as they produce beautiful and boundary-breaking works as artists and visual architects.
Exit Through the Giftshop (2010)
If you haven't seen this mockumentary by Banksy, you're a bit behind the times, but we'll forgive you. The film follows Thierry Guetta and his obsession with street art. As a viewer, you're never quite sure where the film is headed and if it's being earnest or totally messing with you. Just like Banksy's art, it keeps you guessing.
Gerhard Richter Painting (2011)
This documentary follows the success of the German artist and the unique process that creates his signature "blur" paintings.
Ai Weiwei: Never Sorry (2012)
This biographical documentary is about how Chinese artist and political dissident Ai Weiwei uses his art to push back against oppression and stimulate social change. After watching this film, you should also check out Ai Weiwei: The Fake Case, another great doc streaming on Netflix.
Be sure to follow T-Lounge on Twitter and visit our Facebook page
