The Influence of Cinema on Contemporary Art

Cinema has always had a profound impact on the visual arts, shaping and reshaping how artists perceive and create their work. In recent years, the dialogue between contemporary art and film has only deepened, as artists draw inspiration from the narratives, aesthetics, and themes explored in both blockbuster hits and indie gems. This symbiotic relationship between the two mediums not only enriches the artistic landscape but also reflects the broader cultural conversations happening in society.

One striking example of cinema’s influence on contemporary art is the work of British-Nigerian artist and filmmaker John Akomfrah. Akomfrah’s cinematic approach to art has earned him a prominent place in the contemporary art world, with his immersive video installations that blend archival footage with newly shot material. His piece Vertigo Sea (2015), for instance, is a three-screen video installation that weaves together imagery from the history of slavery, whaling, and the current refugee crisis. The work draws heavily on the aesthetics of film, using cinematic techniques to evoke emotional responses and prompt reflection on human history and the natural world. Akomfrah’s art is a testament to how contemporary artists are using the language of cinema to explore complex themes and create powerful visual narratives.

Another artist whose work is deeply influenced by cinema is the American painter and filmmaker Kara Walker. Walker’s exploration of race, gender, and power dynamics in America often takes cues from cinematic storytelling. Her shadowy, silhouetted figures, reminiscent of old films, confront viewers with the brutal realities of history. In 2019, she expanded her practice into the realm of film with Testimony: Narrative of a Negress Burdened by Good Intentions, an animation that further underscores her ability to blend the visual language of cinema with fine art. Walker’s work illustrates how the structures of film—its ability to tell stories, evoke emotions, and challenge viewers—can be translated into other forms of art.

Beyond individual artists, entire exhibitions are increasingly curated with an eye toward the cinematic. The 2019 exhibition Soul of a Nation: Art in the Age of Black Power, which traveled from London’s Tate Modern to the Brooklyn Museum, is one such example. The exhibition featured artists like Barkley L. Hendricks and Lorraine O’Grady, whose work drew inspiration from the visual storytelling and cultural narratives prevalent in Black cinema during the 1960s and 70s. The exhibition underscored how cinema not only influences individual artists but also shapes broader movements within contemporary art.

Additionally, the influence of cinema on contemporary art is not limited to galleries and museums. It extends into the work of creatives who blend visual art with digital media and fashion. For instance, New York-based designer Telfar Clemens, who has become a cultural icon with his Telfar bags, frequently draws inspiration from cinematic themes. His designs often incorporate elements of Black cinema and Afro-futurism, creating pieces that are not only fashion statements but also commentaries on identity, representation, and cultural history.

Moreover, the dialogue between cinema and art is also present in the works of emerging artists who use social media platforms to showcase their art. London-based filmmaker and visual artist Jenn Nkiru is at the forefront of this movement, creating works that are deeply cinematic in their approach. Her short film Rebirth is Necessary (2017) explores themes of Blackness and spirituality, drawing on the visual language of both cinema and contemporary art. Nkiru’s work highlights how the boundaries between film and visual art are increasingly porous, with each medium informing and enriching the other.

The influence of cinema on contemporary art is undeniable and continues to grow as artists find new ways to incorporate cinematic techniques and themes into their work. This cultural exchange between film and art not only pushes the boundaries of both mediums but also deepens our understanding of the world around us. Whether through the immersive video installations of John Akomfrah, the narrative-driven art of Kara Walker, or the culturally resonant designs of Telfar Clemens, it’s clear that cinema will remain a vital source of inspiration for contemporary artists for years to come.

For those eager to explore this dynamic relationship further, exhibitions like Soul of a Nation or the works of artists like John Akomfrah and Jenn Nkiru provide a fascinating glimpse into how cinema continues to shape and influence the world of contemporary art.