Monday, September 28, 2015

When Forgery Isn't a Crime



I watched a fascinating documentary last night about the art forger, Mark Landis.  It is part of the series POV on PBS - titled Art and Craft.   Artists should find this story and documentary compelling, but I think anyone would really.

The synoposis as described on PBS's website:

'Mark Landis is one of the most prolific art forgers of the modern era — and he isn't in it for the money. In the last 30 years he's copied hundreds of pieces, from 15th-century icons to works by Picasso and even Dr. Seuss, then donated them to museums across the country. When a tenacious registrar discovers the ruse, Landis must confront his legacy and a chorus of duped professionals intent on stopping him. But Landis is a diagnosed schizophrenic, driven since his teens to escape "the life of a mental patient," and ending the con isn't so simple. A cat-and-mouse caper told with humor and compassion, Art and Craft uncovers the universal in one man's search for connection and respect.'

I just had to tell you about it.

Read about Art and Craft here, where you'll find your television schedule or the link to stream it.

1 comment:

Amy said...

WOW! Thanks for that link! What a fascinating vid! To think he could fool so many using markers and acrylic junk! We who take our attempts, successes, and failures so seriously thinking we have to have all the latest equipment should get over ourselves!!!
Amy Laughhunn
PS Just the same I still won't give up my pizza pan, all these colors, and my table top easel!