Movie Monday: Documentary about one of the most influential painters in our modern lives- the “light” and the dark side

Think of a famous painter that existed in your lifetime. Maybe Bob Ross comes to mind with his “happy little trees”. He hosted the popular The Joy of Painting, an instructional television program that aired from 1983 to 1994 on PBS. His iconic hair and soothing instructional voice mesmerized a lot of us viewers for many years.  But did you own any Bob Ross paintings or replicas?

Or did you own something from Thomas Kincade?

I remember a Thomas Kincade matted replica painting hanging in my parents home. In fact, it might still be there. I also remember putting together a Thomas Kincade puzzle with my Granny. I have a Thomas Kincade stationary and thank you note set in my desk right now.

Chances are if you were alive in the 90s, you could instantly recognize: “That’s a Thomas Kincade.” And you likely had something made by him.

Get this: It was estimated that 1 in 20 American houses owned some Kincade inspired artwork (a painting, a calendar, a Christmas ornament, postcard, commemorate plate, etc.) in the 1990s. People LOVED the “Painter of Light”.

His multi-million dollar artistry and what’s being called his dark downfall are the topic of a Thomas Kincade documentary called Art For Everybody. Have you seen it? I really want to….

Want to contact Laura McKenna about a great movie, documentary, or upcoming movie trailer you recently watched? Email anytime, she’d love to hear from you: Laura.McKenna@civicmedia.us
And tune in weekdays starting at 10am to St. Croix Country & WCFW!