Earlier, I had been interested in checking out the documentary on Beatrice Wood. Hers is an interesting life because she was known not only for her studio ceramics, but also her connection with the Dada art movement in the early part of the 1900s which included Marcel Duchamp and others.

The film, Beatrice Wood: Mama of Dada, was shown on PBS in 1993-1994, but it didn’t seem possible to get a copy. I should’ve realized that nowadays, everything eventually finds its way online. For some reason, I didn’t even bother to look until a few days ago. But sure enough, its sitting there on Youtube courtesy of the Documentary Channel.

I had mixed feelings about the documentary. I thought it was a little heavy on the “dramatic”, with ethereal scenes of Beatrice walking through fog and such nonsense. I understand that they were trying to convey a mood of passion and sensuality, but as I could’ve done without that part. But you know what, this is probably just me over-complaining - it’s just great that the documentary exists.

People who are already familiar with her work and life may want to skim it. For others, however, it’s definitely worth watching. I actually wasn’t too familiar with her “other” life with the whole Dada scene, so it was educational. The part of the film that focused on her pottery occurred mostly toward the end of the movie. They showed her forming pots, decorating them, mixing glazes and even the firing. It’s pretty amazing that her pottery career actually started later in life. She studied under Glen Lukens and was mentored by the Natzlers. Her pottery is known for its loose and playful style, with a sense of artistic naiveté.

Watch: Beatrice Wood: Mama of Dada on Youtube