Troublemakers (2015 film)

Troublemakers is a 2015 documentary film directed by James Crump. The film explores the emergence of Arte Povera, a radical art movement that arose in Italy in the late 1960s. It focuses on a group of Italian artists who challenged traditional notions of art and its relationship to commerce and culture.

The documentary features archival footage and contemporary interviews with key figures involved in the Arte Povera movement, including artists Giovanni Anselmo, Alighiero Boetti, Pier Paolo Calzolari, Luciano Fabro, Jannis Kounellis, Mario Merz, Marisa Merz, Giulio Paolini, Pino Pascali, Michelangelo Pistoletto, and Gilberto Zorio. It also includes interviews with art collectors, critics, and historians who provide context and insight into the movement's significance.

Troublemakers examines the socio-political climate of Italy during the period, which was marked by student protests, labor unrest, and political upheaval. It argues that Arte Povera was a direct response to these conditions, reflecting a desire to break free from established norms and create art that was more accessible and relevant to everyday life. The film highlights the movement's use of unconventional materials, such as earth, rocks, and textiles, as well as its emphasis on process and performance. It explores the artists' rejection of traditional artistic techniques and their embrace of experimentation and collaboration.

The documentary chronicles the initial critical acclaim and subsequent commercial success of Arte Povera, as well as the challenges and controversies that the movement faced. It raises questions about the relationship between art, money, and power, and the role of art in social and political change. Troublemakers aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Arte Povera and its lasting impact on contemporary art.