I like art related documentaries or films. They often serve as a reminder to be free to explore new thoughts. 

Below are ten must-see documentaries or films, in no particular order, that I have watched and wish to share.

Mona Lisa Curse (2008). A Grierson award-winning polemic documentary by art critic Robert Hughes that examines how the world’s most famous painting came to influence the art world by exploring how museums, the production of art and the way we experience it have radically changed in the last 50 years, telling the story of the rise of contemporary art. 

Herb & Dorothy (2009). Tells the extraordinary story of Herbert Vogel, a postal clerk, and Dorothy Vogel, a librarian, who managed to build one of the most important contemporary art collections in history with very modest means.

Andy Warhol: A Documentary Film (2006). In a sea of Andy Warhol documentaries, this Emmy-winning PBS film rises above the fray with special attention to details and rare glimpses into the artist’s early career.

Roy Lichtenstein (1991). This documentary is filmed in interview form, giving viewers open insight into the process and life work of Roy Lichtenstein, straight from the artist himself.

Exit Through The Gift Shop (2010). The story of how an eccentric French shop keeper and amateur film maker attempted to locate and befriend Banksy, only to have the artist turn the camera back on its owner. The film contains footage of Banksy, Shephard Fairey, Invader and many of the world's most infamous graffiti artists at work.

Crumbs (1994). A cinematic portrait of the controversial comic book writer/artist and his traumatized family.

Beautiful Losers (2008). A documentary by director Aaron Rose and co-directed by Joshua Leonard follows the lives and careers of a collective group of Do-it-yourself artists and designers who inadvertently affected the art world. The artists discussed and interviewed in the film include Thomas Campbell, Cheryl Dunn, Shepard Fairey, Harmony Korine, Geoff McFetridge, Barry McGee, Margaret Kilgallen, Mike Mills, Steven "Espo" Powers, Aaron Rose, Ed Templeton and Deanna Templeton.

Basquiat (1996). Basquiat tells the story of the meteoric rise of youthful artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. Starting out as a street artist, living in Thompkins Square Park in a cardboard box, Jean-Michel is "discovered" by Andy Warhol's art world and becomes a star. But success has a high price, and Basquiat pays with friendship, love, and eventually, his life.

Yoshitomo Nara / Takashi Murakami New Pop Sengen Documentary.

Art School Confidential (2006). Starting from childhood attempts at illustration, the protagonist pursues his true obsession to art school. But as he learns how the art world really works, he finds that he must adapt his vision to the reality that confronts him.