New York Portraits: There's simply no place like it. We're bringing the art, culture and history of New York to you with four vibrant portraits of the city through the decades.
Experience the pivotal years that preceded artist Jean-Michel Basquiat’s fame in this dazzling record of New York City's art world during the late ‘70s and 80s. Director Sara Driver, a close friend of Basquiat’s who was part of the downtown scene herself, draws upon never-before-seen works, writings, photographs and interviews with key figures of the period to visually re-create the era. The result is a rare portrait of the iconic artist and the city that formed him—pre-AIDS, President Reagan, the real estate and art booms—before anyone was motivated by money and ambition. This is New York City's story before that change.
Streaming until September 30
The film will be available for 48 hours from when you start the stream. Please note streaming is only possible from inside Canada. Need assistance? Visit our FAQ page or email us at streamingsupport@hotdocs.ca.