The Work of Art / El Oficio del Arte
This captivating documentary takes us into the homes, minds, and hearts of folk artists in Mexico, who reveal their craft practices and family life in their own words. Social and economic issues emerge discreetly as we follow their work processes and efforts to gain recognition for their art. Settings range from intimate locales in workshops and family homes to panoramic mountain vistas and festive markets.
Trailer: El Oficio del Arte (in English)
Behind the Scenes with Shelly
“In 2005, I think it was, I went to Pátzcuaro, Michoacan, to learn something about artes populares there. With letters of introduction, I met several remarkable and wonderful artisans, both “Gran Maestros" and commercially-oriented artisans, interviewed them, and had the good fortune of engaging my friend and colleague José Luis Reza, to join me as cinematographer and, later, as editor of the documentary, which I produced and directed. It lasts 126 min. and has been screened in Mexico and in France (with French subtitles). It's called El Oficio del Arte in Spanish; Le Travaille d'Art in French; and The Work of Art in English. Color Correction and English subtitles were added in 2020; it has been entered successfully into film festivals. The commentary is entirely in the words of the artisans; there is no voice-over.”
