Water

FILM DETAILS

Director: Erwin Darmali
Running time: 3 minutes 53 seconds
Genre: Visual Documentary Short Film
Rating: G
Release Year: 2023

ABOUT THE FILM

"Water" is an enchanting exploration of the life and artistic journey of renowned artist Kenton Nelson.
Through a captivating blend of mesmerizing visuals and song - written specifically for this project - the film delves deep into the foundations that shaped Nelson's unique artistic perspective.
By drawing upon elements from the past, he intricately weaves the past into the present, enhancing the profound impact of his work.

However, "Water: The Visual Story of Kenton Nelson" extends beyond a simple exploration of an artist's life.
It goes into the very essence of life itself, offering a thought-provoking perspective on the human experience.

Viewers are invited to experience ideals of perfection, and through that, discover the quiet beauty present in every moment - so long as we allow ourselves to flow.

This short film was shown in “Seaside: The Art of Kenton Nelson” exhibition at the California Heritage Museum in Santa Monica (2023).

THEMES / KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Perspective: The film utilizes the combination of the artist’s personal life archives, his paintings, and footages of the artist making his art to connect a complete feel of the process of creation - one that deals with the experience that forms the philosophy and vision.

  • Purpose: Made for a specific exhibition, the director chose create a somewhat abstract visual documentary. While exhibition attendees can appreciate the visuals in response to the music, but the ones who really know the artist’s life story, will sense the story. This film is not only to accompany the exhibit, but also to intrigue anyone who sees them, guessing the deeper connections.

MEDIA / STILLS GALLERY

FILM CREDITS

Director, Cinematography, Editor: Erwin Darmali

Songwriter: Michael Charles Smith

Music Arranger: Van Dyke Parks

Project Commissioned by: Kenton Nelson

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