Courtney Sale Ross

This documentary offers an intimate look at the life and legacy of American abstract expressionist Franz Kline. Through personal memories and reflections from those who knew him—such as fellow artist Willem de Kooning, de Kooning’s wife Elaine, and other contemporaries—the film paints a vivid portrait of Kline’s personality, artistic spirit, and lasting influence. Known for his powerful black and white compositions and bold brushwork, Kline is remembered not only for his art, but also for his wit, warmth, and passionate approach to painting. The episode explores both his creative process and the deep friendships that shaped his career.

This award-winning 1982 documentary includes in-depth interviews with Willem and Elaine de Kooning as well as archival footage of Willem de Kooning, Franz Kline, and Harold Rosenberg in conversation.

Born in Armenia, Arshile Gorky fled the Turkish persecution and arrived in America in 1920. One of America`s most poetic and powerful painters, Gorky`s influence on his contemporaries gave birth to the New York School of abstract expressionist painting. In rare glimpses into his studio and through interviews with family and friends, this film recreates Gorky`s world, examines the progression of his painting to the later, deeply felt work, that suggests the beauty and anguish of his lost Armenian homeland.