Short Block | The Artist Way

"The Artist's Way" block features films about artists who use creativity to make sense of their world and navigate life's challenges. These films show how art can be a way to reflect on our experiences, stay connected to our roots, and build meaningful connections with others. Through their creative process, artists find ways to grow, adapt, and move forward, demonstrating the power of art to shape our paths and understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Ripple | Dir. Michael McCourt | 14 min | Documentary, Short | USA

Rae Ripple, a welder from the outskirts of West Texas transforms neglected metal into works of art and in the process finds healing from her traumatic past

AQUÍ Y ALLÁ | Dir. Isabella Breton | 10 min | Documentary | USA

Through a conversation with photographer Winston Vargas, we explore the evolution of the Dominican community that migrated from one island to another. We witness through his gaze the peculiar experience of the diaspora in Washington Heights, but most importantly the effect of the community on its new environment. Apart from addressing Dominican identity, Winston confronts the difficulties of adapting, their resilience and the value of documenting and visually expressing their presence over the years.

The Untitled Performers Project | Dir. Ian M Adelson, RJ Brown | 20 min | Documentary, Short, Television | USA

A short documentary featuring the lives of two New York City performers - RuPaul's Drag Race superstar Brita Filter and burlesque household name The Maine Attraction. As the two interview each other through areas of tragedy and triumph, the film follows each in their personal lives leading up to a live performance.

Aliza Nisenbaum: Painting from Life | Dir. Ian Forster | 14 min | Documentary, Short | USA

Culminating with the opening of Nisenbaum’s Queens Museum exhibition Queens, Lindo y Querido, this film follows the development of Nisenbaum’s observational portraiture and highlights the power of a socially engaged art practice to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities.

David Again | Dir. Adam Elliott | 17 min | Documentary, Short | USA

David Again' tells the story of David Dennis, his road to recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, and his lifelong friendship with actor Jon Cryer. It is a story about redemption, the power of friendship, and the promise that it is never too late to ask for help.

Shuhari - Finding my way through Japanese calligraphy (alt. 守破離〜書の道、我が道〜) | Dir. Tatsuya Ino | 13 min | Documentary, Short | Japan

Born and raised in Kyoto, Japanese calligrapher, Chifumi Niimi, teaches students not only how to write characters beautifully but also break through tradition to develop self-esteem and find a new you through shodo (Japanese calligraphy).

Host or Publisher Bushwick Film Festival