11 documentaries designers should add to their watch list

Film and design have a symbiotic relationship, with documentaries playing a crucial role in chronicling design trends and inspiring creativity among designers. Documentaries not only explore the origins and stories behind various design movements but also highlight the contributions of often overlooked artists. "Black Art: In the Absence of Light," a 2021 documentary by Sam Pollard, examines the impact of the 1976-1977 art exhibition "Two Centuries of Black American Art" and the work of Black American artists like David Driskell and Amy Sherald, and is available on HBO Max. Another notable documentary, "Beauty is Embarrassing: The Wayne White Story," profiles Wayne White's transition from puppeteer on "Pee-wee's Playhouse" to an acclaimed painter in Los Angeles, reflecting his unique and humorous art style; it can be streamed on Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video. These films are recommended viewing for anyone seeking insight into the world of design and art, offering both inspiration and a deeper understanding of the cultural impact of these creative fields.