Agnès Varda (1928-2019) was one of global cinema's most radical and transformative artists.
Known for her undeniably personal films, this exhibition explores different influences on the filmmaker's work. It is organized around three sections - Photography, Real People / Real Life, and Art-which bring forward the diverse sources from which Varda drew inspiration.
A photographer prior to becoming a filmmaker, the Photography section explores Varda's work with the still camera through prints, contact sheets, and photography-related production materials. Her transition to becoming a filmmaker is highlighted by her personal director's chair.
The Real People / Real Life section explores the ways in which family, location, and social issues have influenced Varda's films. Personal postcards and props convey her familial inspiration, and materials such as maps, photographs, and other research materials demonstrate her intrinsic tie to location, especially to Rue Daguerre in Paris where the Belgian-born filmmaker spent most of her life.
The Art section introduces Varda's career as a fine artist later in life, displaying a model for one of her cinema shack installations among other works.
At the heart of the gallery, a media installation inspired by Varda's fondness of triptychs explores themes that appear throughout her body of work such as still imagery, family, and her beloved beaches.
Director's Inspiration: Agnès Varda is curated by former Assistant Curator Ana Santiago and completed by Exhibitions Curator Jessica Niebel with support from Research Assistant Manouchka Kelly Labouba, in collaboration with Ciné-Tamaris.
