J. FRED WOELL: AN AMERICAN VISION captures the essence of a political artist who believed deeply in the power of the creative spirit. The film follows Woell for six years through his teaching at Haystack Mountain School of Crafts on Deer Isle, ME, and its mentorship programs, and places him in a rightfully significant place as one of the first craft artists who opened the door to using found objects to comment on the times. Through interviews with historic and contemporary curators, artists and writers we learn about Woell’s underlying convictions: to protect the environment, to fight against fascism, to respect all, particularly native peoples. His work is a politically progressive story, seen within the context of the history of American crafts that speaks of his deeply held beliefs and his impact as an artist, a teacher and a mentor.

Run time: 51 minutes. A selection of craft based shorts will be shown before the feature.

PRAISE FOR J. FRED WOELL: AN AMERICAN VISION

“Fantastic! I particularly love how you contextualize Woell’s work with his contemporaries... a really important film ... an essential piece for American history.”

Barbara Gifford, curator at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City (MAD)

“J. Fred Woell: An American Vision captures the essence of a man who believed deeply in the power of the creative spirit. As an artist he was an innovator and a rule-breaker. As a teacher he encouraged his students to make their own discoveries.... In this inspiring film we are fortunate to witness a part of that journey. “

Stuart Kestenbaum, Chair, American Craft Council

“... so important ... like digging into Fred’s brain!”

Helen Drutt, Curatorial Consultant and Educator

The Northcity4 Craft Film Festival 2018 screens as part of the Craft Cubed Festival.

Northcity4 is a working studio in an old factory in Brunswick. It has a concrete floor and heavy machinery and equipment in the space. It can be cold in winter (we have some heating!) and hot in summer so please dress appropriately.

Getting to Northcity4

Northcity4 is located at 61 Weston St, Brunswick. Workshop entrance is via the side path on the Eastern side of the building. Northcity4 is easily accessible via public transport; the #1, #8 & #19 trams stop nearby and we are close to Jewel station on the Upfield line. There is ample bike parking out the front. Car parking on the street is limited and timed but the Barkly Square carpark is just across the road.

Cancellations

Northcity4 reserves the right to cancel any scheduled event. Of course, we don’t want to do this but in the case of illness or the event not reaching a minimum number of enrolments, you will be notified two days before the scheduled start date and refunds will be provided.

Unfortunately we are unable to offer refunds if you are unable to attend.