Avant-Garde Films1950s and 60s

- Originally a military term, the avant-garde now primarily refers to the front line in the arts. Avant-garde = experimental.

- Often characterized by the absence of linear narrative, the use of various abstracting techniques: out-of-focus, scratching on film, rapid editing, the absence of sound

- Took an oppositional stance toward mainstream culture

Avant-Garde Films

- An American artist and filmmaker born in 1928

- A leading figure in Pop Art

- Began making paintings of iconic American products and celebrities and founded “The Factory”, his studio, during the 1960’s

Andy Warhol

“Andy Warhol was naturally drawn to the movie camera… he was not immune to fame, to say the least, knowing wellthat ‘movies’ were the most alluring path to it.”- Michael Rush.

He made over 60 films between 1963 and 68 that became classics of the underground genre.

Andy Warhol

Edith Minturn “Edie” Sedgwick(1943 – 1971)

Andy Warhol’s Superstar

Screen Tests of Edie Sedgwick, Andy Warhol, 1964-66, videoMore tests

Empire State Building Time-lapse, Andy Warhol

Warhol’s Films from the 60s