by Pauline Adamek
Filmed (it seems) on a mobile phone and a drone, and erratically edited, the art documentary Signs of Life stalks self-taught artist John Kaye as he creates in his studio and applies his paint on public walls, using his idiosyncratic graffiti handstyle.
Directed by documentary filmmaker Cameron Brunt, Signs of Life offers an exploration of the intensely personal artistic process and how memories and experiences directly correlate with creation.
Collaborating with local artists in Indonesia, the restless documentary captures the perspectives of this Australian artist as he travels around Indonesia creating art. In voice-over, Kaye explains how he has been painting ever since he was a kid, adding that “it forces me to face myself.”
We learn that Kaye specialises in large-scale paintings, alternating between the studio and the streets. Leading with his left hand, we see him crafting imagery using spray cans, brushes and markers (wet and dry tools). His style seems to be influenced by everything from anime to pop artist Keith Haring.
The film mostly takes place in the Special Region of Yogyakarta in Indonesia, on the picturesque island of Java. As the only Indonesian royal city still ruled by a monarchy, Yogyakarta is regarded as an important center for classical Javanese fine arts and culture. Over the span of three weeks, Kaye tools around on a motorbike throughout the region, frequently stopping when he feels inspired. We see him exploring desolate corners of the island, visiting small villages and meeting with hospitable locals who open their doors and warmly share their culture.
To capture Kaye thrashing through his creations, the usual filming techniques are at play here, from slow motion to rapid speed to stop motion. Jake Ashe handles both cinematography and editing the short (35-minute) doco, his keen eye capturing the curiosity of the shy local children and modest adults.
Signs of Life was selected for “Best Documentary Short” at this year’s New York International Film Awards.
Signs of Life is released on Vimeo on Demand on September 19, 2020
hahahahah looks like its shot on RED cameras not a mobile phone, wtf? Pauline clearly has no idea!
That’s just her opinion, hence ‘it seems’, red or otherwise Jessica. Thanks for reading.
Thanks for the review guys, lots of love!
Jake, the cinematographer!
right back at ya!