Presented in 3D! With Panel Discussion

Join us for a screening of the 3D documentary Westermann: Memorial to the Idea of Man If He Was an Idea (2023), which tells the story of the life and work of artist, marine, and acrobat H. C. (Cliff) Westermann.

As a veteran of World War II and the Korean War, Westermann’s dramatic personal history can be traced through beguiling, surreal artworks he made to process the horrors he witnessed on the front lines. Drawing on themes of resiliency, hope, and humor, the film reveals ways in which Westermann protected his empathic spirit—and sanity—by ‘sculpting’ his body, artworks, friendships, his hand-hewn house, and his art-filled letters to his dearest friends and family.

Following the film, a panel discussion featuring John Corbett (Corbett vs Dempsey), Berit Ness (Smart Museum of Art), Leslie Buchbinder (Pentimenti Productions), and artist Alex Chitty will start a conversation about Westermann’s ongoing significance and his specific legacies in Chicago. 

FREE. Advanced registration encouraged, as space may be limited. 

Presented by the Smart Museum of Art and Film Studies Center.

Related Programs

Prior to the screening, the Smart Museum of Art will open up its study room for a special collections viewing of work from its H. C. Westermann Study Collection, one of the most significant public collections of artwork and archival material related to Westermann’s life and work. 

An additional screening takes place at 11:30 am. 

Trailer

(Directed by Leslie Buchbinder, USA, 2023, 86 min., 3D DCP)