Taking Venice | Movie Review: Fascinating Look

Taking Venice: Captivating Documentary

In the world of art, the Venice Biennale is one of the most prestigious international exhibitions of contemporary work. The documentary “Taking Venice” offers a captivating behind-the-scenes look at the events surrounding Robert Rauschenberg’s groundbreaking win of the coveted Golden Lion at the 1964 Biennale. Directed by art critic and documentary filmmaker Amei Wallach, the film portrays Rauschenberg’s victory as a strategic exercise in asserting American cultural power during the postwar era.

The Rise of Pop Art and Rauschenberg’s Influence

In the 1960s, the Pop Art movement was gaining momentum, challenging traditional notions of what constituted art. Rauschenberg, along with other pioneers like Jasper Johns, Roy Lichtenstein, Claes Oldenburg, and Andy Warhol, embraced a new artistic language that incorporated collage, painting, silkscreen, and everyday objects. Their works often prompted the question, “Is this art?”

Despite facing criticism at home and abroad, Rauschenberg’s innovative approach was gaining recognition and commercial success. He embodied a certain aura of inevitability, someone destined for greatness who simply needed a push to reach the summit.

The Political Motives Behind Rauschenberg’s Win

In the context of the Cold War, the United States saw the Venice Biennale as an opportunity to assert its cultural dominance on the global stage. President John F. Kennedy, a fervent supporter of the arts, recognized the power of art as a symbol of American ingenuity and freedom of expression.

The State Department, under Kennedy’s leadership, sought to establish America as a producer of unique, adventurous, and meaningful fine art, transcending the mere exportation of commercial goods like blue jeans and Coca-Cola. Rauschenberg’s unconventional style and growing popularity made him the perfect candidate to represent the avant-garde spirit of American art.

The Masterminds Behind the Scenes

Amei Wallach’s documentary offers a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes machinations that propelled Rauschenberg’s victory. Through interviews with key players like Alice Denney, the former vice-commissioner of the US pavilion, and her husband, a high-ranking State Department official, Wallach unravels the strategic maneuvering that took place.

The appointment of Alan R. Solomon, a smooth and savvy curator, as the US Biennale commissioner was instrumental in orchestrating Rauschenberg’s win. Solomon, described by New Yorker writer Calvin Tomkins as having “a fine hand in his aggression,” navigated the art world’s complex politics with skill and determination.

Fascinating Intersection of Art and Politics

“Taking Venice” is more than just a documentary about art; it’s a fascinating exploration of the intersection between art and politics, where cultural achievements were leveraged as symbols of ideological superiority during the Cold War era.

Wallach’s film invites viewers to ponder the extent to which art can be influenced by external forces and how governments may wield cultural capital to further their agendas. It raises thought-provoking questions about the relationship between artistic expression and national identity, leaving audiences with a deeper appreciation for the complexities that often lie beneath the surface of celebrated cultural events.

Must-Watch for Art Enthusiasts and History Buffs

With its compelling narrative, insightful interviews, and rare archival footage, “Taking Venice” is a must-watch for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Wallach’s meticulous research and skilled storytelling bring to life a pivotal moment in art history, shedding light on the intricate web of politics, power, and passion that shaped the cultural landscape of the 1960s.

Whether you’re an avid art lover or simply fascinated by the interplay between art and geopolitics, “Taking Venice” promises an engaging and thought-provoking cinematic experience that will leave a lasting impression.

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