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Art21 to Premiere Sable Elyse Smith Documentary 'Turn Things Over' on August 5

digital · 2026-08-04

On August 5, 2026, at 12 pm ET, Art21 will debut the documentary "Sable Elyse Smith: Turn Things Over," helmed by director Crystal Kayiza, available on Art21.org and YouTube. This film chronicles artist Sable Elyse Smith's efforts to reinterpret institutional power dynamics, especially the prison-industrial complex, into art that underscores systemic injustices. It showcases Smith in her studio in New Jersey, during her time at the BOFFO Fire Island Pines residency, and at an exhibition at The Contemporary Austin. The documentary delves into themes of violence within social relations and environments, utilizing materials sourced from the prison-industrial complex. This release is part of Art21's Extended Play series, backed by multiple foundations. The announcement occurred on August 3, 2026, in New York.

Key facts

  • Art21 announced the premiere of 'Sable Elyse Smith: Turn Things Over' on August 3, 2026.
  • The documentary film is directed by Crystal Kayiza.
  • The film premieres Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 12 pm ET on Art21.org and YouTube.
  • The film follows Sable Elyse Smith in her New Jersey studio, at BOFFO Fire Island Pines residency, and at an exhibition at The Contemporary Austin.
  • Smith's practice focuses on transforming materials of the prison-industrial complex into art.
  • Smith is quoted: 'I stumbled upon the world of art, but always had a desire to think critically and then find ways to put that information back out into the world.'
  • The film is part of Art21's Extended Play digital series.
  • Extended Play is supported by the Art21 Contemporary Council, the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation, and other funders.
  • Art21 has produced 85+ hours of films documenting over 300 artists across six continents.
  • The announcement was made in New York, New York.

Entities

Artists

  • Sable Elyse Smith
  • Crystal Kayiza

Institutions

  • Art21
  • BOFFO Fire Island Pines
  • The Contemporary Austin
  • Robert Rauschenberg Foundation
  • Every Page Foundation
  • New York City Department of Cultural Affairs
  • New York State Council on the Arts
  • Henry Nias Foundation

Locations

  • New York City
  • United States
  • New Jersey
  • Fire Island Pines
  • Austin
  • Texas

Sources