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What Art Fund Recommends on Marquee TV
Find out what Art Fund’s favorite Marquee TV documentaries are.
Art Fund is the UK charity for museums and galleries. It helps museums to enrich their collections, engage wider audiences, and provide access to art for everyone. From funding exhibitions to supporting new ideas and experiences, Art Fund helps keep the UK’s cultural scene thriving. With the help of the National Art Pass and generous supporters, Art Fund makes it easier for everyone to connect with art. As champions of creativity and curiosity, they’re a leading voice in the arts and are always full of brilliant recommendations. So, we asked Art Fund to curate a list of Marquee TV titles perfect for art lovers of any level.
Vermeer: The Greatest Exhibition
Vermeer: The Greatest Exhibition is a cinematic journey through the once-in-a-lifetime Rijksmuseum show, offering an up-close, expertly guided experience of the largest Vermeer exhibition ever staged. Filmed with stunning clarity and intimate detail, the documentary captures the atmosphere of the galleries. Featuring commentary from curators and art historians, zoomed-in footage of the most intricate details of his paintings, and a virtual tour around the gallery, this documentary reveals new insights into the artist’s life and work. Whether you missed the sold-out show or want to see Vermeer’s genius from a fresh perspective, this film brings the magic of the exhibition to life like never before.
Why Art Fund loves it:
“This documentary invites you to a private viewing of the spectacular 2023 Vermeer exhibition at the Rijksmuseum. You’ll be accompanied by the director of the Rijksmuseum and the curators of the show, who’ll give you a unique perspective on this historic exhibition celebrating the work of 17th-century Dutch master Johannes Vermeer.
This once-in-a-lifetime show brought together 28 masterpieces by Vermeer, including Girl with a Pearl Earring and The Milkmaid. Tickets were like gold dust, and the show sold out completely.”
Kusama: Infinity
Kusama: Infinity is a captivating documentary that explores the extraordinary life and art of Yayoi Kusama, the queen of polka dots and one of the world’s most celebrated contemporary artists. Directed by Heather Lenz, this film chronicles Yayoi Kusama’s journey from her conservative upbringing in rural Japan to her rise to fame in the New York art scene. Through exclusive interviews and archival footage, this documentary offers insight into Kusama’s relentless creativity, her open struggles with mental health, and her unwavering determination to make her mark on the art world.
Why Art Fund loves it:
“Many of us will associate Yayoi Kusama with giant sculptures and her Infinity Mirror Rooms exhibition at Tate Modern, which ran for nearly three years.
This documentary takes you beyond the blockbusters, so you can hear from Kusama directly, learn about her history, and more about her artistic vision.”
Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers
Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers is a captivating documentary that brings the National Gallery’s acclaimed exhibition to the screen, offering an intimate exploration of Vincent van Gogh’s life and works, including his transformative years in the south of France. Filmed in stunning detail, the documentary captures the vibrant colors and textures of Van Gogh’s masterpieces, giving you an up-close experience with the art. Through insightful commentary and readings from Van Gogh’s letters to his brother Theo, the film sheds new light on his artistic genius and the passions that drove him, making it an enriching experience for both art enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Why Art Fund loves it:
“Experience the National Gallery’s critically acclaimed exhibition from the comfort of your home. A sold-out blockbuster, the exhibition was even open for 24 hours on its final weekend – and still sold all its tickets.
In this film, you can get up close to some of Van Gogh’s most iconic paintings, including Starry Night over the Rhône and Sunflowers, accompanied by expert curatorial commentary and new insight.”
David Hockney at the Royal Academy of Arts
David Hockney at the Royal Academy of Arts is an engaging documentary that offers an intimate look into two of Hockney’s major exhibitions at London’s Royal Academy of Arts, in 2012 and 2016. Featuring compelling interviews with Hockney himself, the film shines a light on Hockney’s creative process and the boldness that defines his work. Filmed with privileged access to Hockney’s studio, this film captures the vibrancy and innovation of Hockney’s art with brilliant detail.
Why Art Fund loves it:
“This film gives you a private tour of not one but two David Hockney exhibitions at the Royal Academy of Arts in London. Spend time drinking in The Splash in high definition – the colors really come across vividly on camera. You really get a sense of his process in this film too, which makes this perfect for Hockney fans and aspiring artists alike.
If you want more Hockney, you can book tickets to his Bigger & Closer experience at Lightroom in London – 50% off with your National Art Pass.”
Hopper: An American Love Story
Hopper: An American Love Story is a compelling documentary that delves into the life and art of Edward Hopper, one of America’s most influential artists. Directed by BAFTA award-winner Phil Grabsky, the film offers an in-depth exploration of Hopper’s journey from a struggling illustrator to a celebrated painter whose works like Nighthawks and Chop Suey have become synonymous with American Realism. With expert interviews, readings from Hopper’s personal diaries, and rare archival footage, this documentary sheds light on Hopper’s complex relationships and the profound impact his wife, Josephine Nivison, had on his career.
Why Art Fund Loves it:
“Edward Hopper created some of America’s most popular 20th-century artworks – but could you describe what he looks like, or tell anyone anything about him?
This documentary shines a spotlight on Hopper’s biography, as well as taking you through the details and process of some of his most famous works, really bringing a somewhat enigmatic character to life.
It also examines his wife’s role in his success, which brings a new angle to the story of his career.”
Frida Kahlo
Frida Kahlo is a captivating documentary that invites you into the vibrant and tumultuous world of one of art’s most iconic figures. With narration taken from Kahlo’s personal letters and insight from art curators and experts, this film dives deep into Frida’s inner world and the fascinating symbolism of her work. Visiting Kahlo’s famous Blue House, now the Frida Kahlo Museum, this visually rich and emotionally powerful documentary offers a fresh perspective on the life and legacy of Frida Kahlo. You’ll gain insight into the symbolism and techniques she used in famous works like The Two Fridas, Henry Ford Hospital, and her iconic self portraits.
Why Art Fund Loves it :
“Lots of us know Frida Kahlo for endlessly shareable images featuring bright colours and big brows – but this film takes you on a journey through the life of a true icon. You’ll learn the stories behind some of those images, but you’ll also hear more about her often-turbulent life and her artistic legacy.”
Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or just beginning your journey into the vibrant world of art, Art Fund and Marquee TV are the perfect companions to help you discover more. This handpicked collection of documentaries offers a fun and accessible way to explore the rich detail and captivating stories behind some of the world’s most iconic artists and exhibitions. Watch a doc or two at home before heading out to see these masterpieces in person with the National Art Pass. Not in the UK? These films offer a front-row seat to galleries and exhibitions around the world.