Documentaries help highlight the value and diversity of The Arts within culture and society.
Throughout history, The Arts have been used as a means of reflecting, critiquing, and influencing society. In ancient civilisations, art was often used to depict societal hierarchies, religious beliefs, and cultural practices.
In the 20th century, The Arts became increasingly intertwined with social and political movements with artists and cultural figures playing crucial roles in advocating for civil rights, feminism, LGBTQIA+ rights, and other social justice causes.
In recent times, the social impact of The Arts has expanded and diversified further with artists engaging with a wide range of social and political issues, including environmental sustainability, racial inequality, mental health, globalisation, and technological advancements. They employ various mediums including visual arts, performing arts, literature, music, film, and digital media to communicate their messages and engage audiences.
Documentaries help highlight the value and diversity of The Arts within culture and society. As an art form themselves, documentaries show how The Arts allow audiences to engage with different perspectives and experiences, and allow for social commentary, self-expression, and personal development. Artists and cultural organisations work closely with communities to address local concerns and promote social change. They create platforms for dialogue, challenge perception, raise awareness, and empower individuals and communities to take action. Documentaries about these creative expressions elevate and expands the reach and depth of understanding of their messages.
Completed Documentary Australia-supported The Arts projects:
Knowing the Score | When the Camera Stopped Rolling | Firestarter – The Story of Bangarra |
Where to watch: ABC iview, Apple TV, Google Play | Where to watch: DocPlay, Amazon Prime | Where to watch: Netflix, Google Play, Apple TV |
Wash My Soul in the River’s Flow | Paul Kelly: Stories of Me | Paper Trails |
Where to watch: Stan, Apple TV, ABC iview | Where to watch: DocPlay, Apple TV, Google Play | Where to watch: DocPlay, Vimeo |
Stunningly restored film footage takes you inside the birth of Australian surfing.