Art21 has announced the release of a new documentary film titled “José de Jesús Rodríguez’s Back & Forth,” premiering online on May 27, 2026. Directed by Andrea Yu-Chieh Chung, the film follows painter José de Jesús Rodríguez as he transitions into new techniques like mosaic and relief sculpture, exploring themes of personal and collective identity through references ranging from Mexican muralists to popular culture. The film will be available on Art21.org and YouTube as part of Art21's ongoing series documenting contemporary artists.
The film matters because it highlights how a contemporary artist uses traditional methods to navigate complex cultural and personal narratives, expanding the conversation around identity in visual art. As part of Art21's New York Close Up series, which supports early-career artists, the documentary underscores the importance of accessible, in-depth artist portraits in making contemporary art relevant and engaging for broad audiences. It also reflects Art21's continued commitment to documenting diverse artistic practices and fostering community connections.