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Marcie Begleiter's Documentary Eva Hesse Premieres at Film Forum, Exploring Artist's Life and 1960s New York Art World

publication · 2026-04-22

The documentary 'Eva Hesse,' directed by Marcie Begleiter, will debut at New York's Film Forum from April 27 to May 10, 2016. This film showcases the life of the significant artist who passed away at the young age of 34, featuring archival photographs, silent footage, and excerpts from her diaries and letters. It highlights Hesse's connections with notable figures such as Sol Lewitt and Richard Serra. The narrative follows her evolution from expressionist painting to quasi-minimalist sculpture, utilizing materials like latex and polyester resin. The film delves into her key relationships, particularly with Lewitt, and examines the influence of the Holocaust on her work, with contributions from her sister, Helen Hesse Charash. Daily screenings occur at 12:30, 2:45, 5:10, 7:30, and 9:50 at 209 West Houston Street.

Key facts

  • World theatrical premiere at Film Forum from April 27 through May 10, 2016
  • Eva Hesse died at age 34 from brain tumors
  • Film uses primary sources including diaries, letters, and interviews
  • Hesse worked with unconventional materials like polyester resin, latex, fiberglass, and rope
  • Sol Lewitt's correspondence helped Hesse transition from painter to sculptor during her Germany stay
  • Documentary features perspectives from artists, critics, curators, and museum directors
  • Hesse's artistic community included Sol Lewitt, Richard Serra, Robert Smithson, and Nancy Holt
  • Film examines how Holocaust shadows penetrated Hesse's life and aesthetic practice

Entities

Artists

  • Eva Hesse
  • Marcie Begleiter
  • Sol Lewitt
  • Richard Serra
  • Robert Smithson
  • Nancy Holt
  • Carl Andre
  • Mel Bochner
  • Robert Mangold
  • Sylvia Mangold
  • Tom Doyle
  • Doug Johns
  • Helen Hesse Charash
  • Rosie Goldman
  • Gioia Timpanelli
  • Elizabeth Sussman
  • Samuel Beckett

Institutions

  • Film Forum
  • Lisson Gallery
  • Zeitgest Films
  • artcritical

Locations

  • New York
  • United States
  • London
  • United Kingdom
  • Germany

Sources