Filmed over three years in Venice, Nsukka, Nigeria and the United States, this is a powerful portrait of Africa’s most widely acclaimed contemporary artist, El Anatsui. The film gives an insider’s view of the artist’s practice, the ingenious steps and thousands of hours of labor that convert used bottle tops into huge, opulent wall hangings. Here Anatsui explains how his artworks have become a marriage of painting and sculpture, objects that speak of African history but also reach for the ethereal. He also shares his aspirations for artworks he has yet to make. Directed by Susan Vogel.

Fold, Crumple, Crush: The Art of El Anatsui

2011 US 53 min
Festival Year: 2013
Types: Documentary, Panel Discussion
Topic: Environmental Advocacy and Justice, Global Perspectives